TW202408178A - Sensors incorporated into airborne vehicle components to detect physical characteristic changes - Google Patents

Abstract

A disclosed airborne vehicle includes split-ring resonators (split ring resonators), which may be embedded within a material. Each split ring resonator may be formed from a three-dimensional (3D) monolithic carbonaceous growth and may detect an electromagnetic ping emitted from a user device. Each split ring resonator may generate an electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic ping. The electromagnetic return signal may indicate a state of the material in a position proximate to a respective split ring resonator. In some aspects, each may resonate at a first frequency in response to the electromagnetic ping when the material is in a first state, and may resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic ping when the material is in a second state. A resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based on physical characteristics of the material.

Description

Sensors incorporated into aerial vehicle components to detect changes in physical characteristics

The present disclosure relates generally to sensors, and more specifically, to incorporating split ring resonators into or on structural members of aerial vehicles to detect changes in the properties of such structural members.

Advances in air vehicles including drones, manned drones, vertical take-off and landing aircraft (VTOL) and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) have created opportunities for further technology integration. This is especially true as drones and air vehicles transition to fully autonomous capabilities. Specifically, such systems must regularly monitor the performance and reliability of vehicle components to ensure continued vehicle safety and comfort (for transporting cargo and passengers). Traditional systems, including the use of known landing patterns (at least), may not provide the high accuracy required for precise landings. In addition, such systems may not provide the high fidelity required for security (including meeting legal constraints) and reliability. Such applications may present unique challenges, such as rapid wear of vehicle components (e.g., blades) encountered in flight, or the inability to have a human pilot present to visually inspect vehicle performance during operations.

Recent developments in sensors allow the detection of changes in material properties in many new applications. However, further improvements in sensor technology are desired.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

One innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure may be implemented as an electromagnetic state sensing device (EMSSD) that includes a split ring resonator (split ring resonator) configured to be embedded within a material. . Each split ring resonator can be formed from a three-dimensional (3D) monolithic carbonaceous growth and responds to radiation emitted from a user device (e.g., a smartphone, radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, or near field communication (NFC) device). The electromagnetic stimulation signal responds to generate an electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal. The electromagnetic return signal indicates the state of the material at a location proximal to the respective split ring resonator. The split ring resonator can resonate at a first frequency in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal when the material is in the first state, and the split ring resonator can respond to the electromagnetic stimulation when the material is in the second state. The signal resonates at the second frequency. The natural resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based on the physical properties of the material, such as permittivity and/or magnetic permeability. In this manner, the degree to which the natural resonance frequencies of the first split ring resonator and the second split ring resonator shift in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal may be indicative of the amount of deformation of the material.

In various embodiments, each split ring resonator can indicate a first state of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal, and can generate a third electromagnetic acoustic pulse wave in response to Two electromagnetic return signals indicate the second state of the material. Additionally, the first electromagnetic return signal may have a first frequency, and the second electromagnetic return signal may have a second frequency that is different from the first frequency.

The state of the material may include deformation of the material. In some aspects, the split ring resonator can indicate material deformation by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to an electromagnetic stimulation signal, and can indicate a lack of material deformation by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to an electromagnetic acoustic pulse wave. .

In some embodiments, at least one split ring resonator includes a resonant portion that can resonate at a first frequency in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal when the state of the material exceeds a threshold, and when the state of the material Below a threshold, the resonant portion may resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal. Some of the split ring resonators may each have a first split ring resonator (split ring resonator) having first carbon particles, which may be based on the first split ring resonator. The concentration level of the first carbon particles uniquely resonates in response to the electromagnetic stimulus signal. Some split ring resonators may have a second split ring resonator adjacent to the first split ring resonator, the second split ring resonator having second carbon particles, which may be based on the second split ring resonator. The concentration level of the second carbon particles within the resonator uniquely resonates in response to the electromagnetic stimulus signal.

Each of the first carbon particles and the second carbon particles can be chemically bonded to the material. In some aspects, the first carbon particles may include first aggregates forming a first porous structure and the second carbon particles may include second aggregates forming a second porous structure. In this way, the resonance amplitude of the first split ring resonator or the second split ring resonator may be indicative of the degree of wear of the material. Additionally, the first split ring resonator may resonate at a first frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse wave, and the second split ring resonator may resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse wave, wherein the first frequencies are different at the second frequency. Each of the first split ring resonator and the second split ring resonator may each have an attenuation point associated with a frequency response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse wave.

In some embodiments, a split ring resonator is disposed within the structural components of the EVTOL. In addition, technologies are revealed to demonstrate how resonance sensors play an important role in the safety and maneuverability of EVTOL vehicles and other types of air vehicles.

In one embodiment, an aerial vehicle assembly may include at least one split ring resonator (SRR) embedded within a material that may form at least a portion of the hollow vehicle assembly. Additionally, the at least one SRR can be formed from a three-dimensional (3D) monolithic carbonaceous growth, and the at least one SRR can be configured to respond to electromagnetic stimulation emitted from the antenna. Additionally, the at least one SRR, in combination with materials of the aerial vehicle assembly at a location proximal to the at least one SRR, may modulate the electromagnetic stimulus to form an electromagnetic return signal that may indicate the presence of the at least one SRR. The state of the material at a location proximal to at least one SRR.

In various embodiments, the air vehicle may be one of: a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, a drone, a manned drone, a commercial aircraft, a military aircraft Or rocket. Additionally, the at least one SRR may be used to determine the position of the air vehicle relative to the landing site. For example, at least three of the at least one SRR may be used to triangulate the position of the aerial vehicle component.

The material may be found on at least one of: propeller blades, body material, landing gear, cockpit interface, or structural components. Additionally, the condition of the material may indicate at least one of surface flex, propeller flex, or landing gear flex. The state of the material may also be related to indicate at least one of pressure, location, temperature, or altitude.

In some embodiments, the at least one SRR can be configured to resonate at a first frequency in response to electromagnetic stimulation when the material is in a first state, and can be configured to resonate at a first frequency when the material is in a second state. Resonates at a second frequency in response to electromagnetic stimulation. Additionally, the tuned resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based, at least in part, on one or more physical properties of the material.

In various embodiments, the at least one SRR can be configured to indicate a first state of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic stimulus, and can be configured to generate a first electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic stimulus. A second electromagnetic return signal indicates a second state of the material. Additionally, the first electromagnetic return signal has a first frequency, and the second electromagnetic return signal has a second frequency that is different from the first frequency. Additionally, the state of the material may include deformation of the material, and/or the at least one SRR may be configured to indicate material deformation by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic stimulus, and may be configured to indicate the deformation of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic stimulus. A second electromagnetic return signal is generated in response to the electromagnetic stimulation to indicate a lack of deformation of the material. The resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based, at least in part, on either or both of the material's permittivity and magnetic permeability.

In one embodiment, the one or more SRRs may further include a first split ring resonator (SRR) including a plurality of first carbon particles configured to The first SRR uniquely resonates in response to electromagnetic stimulation based at least in part on the concentration level of the first carbon particles within the first SRR. Additionally, the one or more SRRs may further include a second SRR and include a plurality of second carbon particles configured to be based, at least in part, on a concentration level of the second carbon particles within the second SRR. To uniquely resonate in response to electromagnetic stimulation. Additionally, each of the first carbon particles and the second carbon particles may be chemically bonded to the material, the first carbon particles may include first aggregates forming the first porous structure, and/or the second carbon particles may include A second aggregate forming a second porous structure.

Additionally, in other cases, the resonance amplitude of at least one of the first SRR or the second SRR may be indicative of the degree of wear of the material. Additionally, the first SRR can be configured to resonate at a first frequency in response to electromagnetic stimulation, and the second SRR can be configured to resonate at a second frequency in response to electromagnetic stimulation, which first frequency can be different than The second frequency, the degree to which the natural resonant frequencies of the first SRR and the second SRR shift in response to electromagnetic stimulation may be indicative of the amount of deformation of the material, each of the first SRR and the second SRR may have an attenuation point, and /Or the respective attenuation points of the first SRR and the second SRR can be associated with frequency responses to electromagnetic stimulation.

In one embodiment, a landing field may include at least one split ring resonator (SRR) configured to be embedded within a material that may constitute at least a portion of the landing field. Additionally, the at least one SRR can be formed from a three-dimensional (3D) monolithic carbonaceous growth, and the at least one SRR can be configured to respond to electromagnetic stimulation emitted from the antenna. In addition, the at least one SRR, combined with the materials of the landing site and its environment, can modulate the electromagnetic stimulus to form an electromagnetic return signal that can be indicative of at least one environment at a location proximal to the at least one SRR. condition.

The details of one or more implementations of the subject matter described in this disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects and advantages will become apparent from the specification, drawings and claims. Please note that the relative dimensions of the following figures may not be drawn to scale.

Cross-references to related applications

This patent application claims priority interests in the following cases: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/242,270 entitled "SENSORS INCORPORATED INTO SEMI-RIGID STRUCTURAL MEMBERS TO DETECT PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC CHANGES" claimed on September 9, 2021; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/247,680 titled "SENSORS INCORPORATED INTO SEMI-RIGID STRUCTURAL MEMBERS TO DETECT PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC CHANGES" filed on September 23, 2021; filed on November 5, 2021 titled "SENSORS INCORPORATED IN VEHICLE COMPONENTS TO DETECT PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC CHANGES" U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/276,274; and the U.S. Provisional Patent Application entitled "SENSORS INCORPORATED INTO AIRBORNE VEHICLE COMPONENTS TO DETECT PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC CHANGES" asserted on November 22, 2021 No. 63/281,846, each of the above cases is assigned to its assignee; all disclosures of the previous applications are deemed to be part of this patent application and are incorporated by reference into this patent application.

Various embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein generally relate to deploying durable sensors (eg, split ring resonators, split ring resonators) made from carbonaceous microstructures. These sensors can be integrated into vehicle components, such as integrated into the ply of the main body of conventional, currently commercially available pneumatic (referring to being filled with air, nitrogen or other gases) tires or next-generation airless solid tires. , as well as incorporated in other locations, such as within the vehicle body. Sensors may be embedded in portions of the tire ply and/or tire tread, such as the rubber in contact with the pavement or ground. Regular tire use can lead to contact patch degradation, ultimately resulting in slick (untreaded) tires that cannot adequately adhere to the road, especially in adverse weather conditions such as snow, heavy rain, etc. Degradation of the tire ply containing the sensor produces a corresponding detectable change in the behavior of the sensor's response, for example, relative to lateral tire slip (e.g., "drifting," a common maneuver in some enthusiast communities) Forward rotation and tire strain encountered. In this manner, conventional (e.g., forward rotation) tire degradation can be detected based on changes in expected sensor resonant response behavior, and can be detected by observing shifts in expected sensor resonant response behavior (e.g., via This is accomplished using frequency shift keying (a concept explained further below) to detect tire stiction losses (e.g., during drifting maneuvers). As is commonly understood, stiction may mean the static frictional force that needs to be overcome in order to enable relative movement of fixed objects in contact with each other, such as may be encountered during performance driving maneuvers involving lateral movement, such as drifting. This is in contrast to kinetic and/or dynamic friction, which may mean, among other things, simultaneous movement between two contacting surfaces.

It should be understood that, as described herein, sensors may also be incorporated into construction materials, construction materials, metal materials, polymers, plastics, foams (open and closed cells), etc. In addition, such materials can also be used in industries other than automotive (such as aerospace, construction, mining, etc.).

The carbonaceous material can be tuned during synthesis to achieve specific desired radio frequency (RF) signal offset (frequency shift) and signal attenuation (reduction in signal amplitude) behavior associated with the emitted RF signal. Devices capable of emitting RF signals may include, for example, devices installed in one or more wheel wells of a vehicle equipped with the disclosed system and/or in an inductor-capacitor (LC) circuit, also known as (interchangeably) a storage device. circuit, LC circuit or resonator) next to the transceiver. The presently disclosed embodiments do not require moving components and are thereby less susceptible to wear and tear due to regular road use. The split ring resonator works with pre-existing vehicle electronics, air vehicle electronics, building (including concrete) components, etc. Target RF resonant frequency values of the disclosed carbonaceous materials can be adjusted within a reaction chamber or reactor to exhibit interactions resulting in target performance characteristics. These features can be used in any number of applications, such as knobby, low-pressure off-road tires and track-only slick tires with no tread. Split-ring resonators formed from unique carbonaceous materials exhibit frequency shifts and/or signal attenuation at specified radio frequencies (RF), such as 0.01 GHz to 100 GHz, which can be tuned according to the desired application. Regarding tunability, carbonaceous materials can grow naturally (eg, self-nucleate) from carbonaceous gaseous species in the reactor without the need for seed particles to produce exquisite 3D structures.

Changes in the surrounding environment of a vehicle equipped with the disclosed materials and systems (e.g., snow, rain, etc.) may affect the resonance, frequency shift, and/or signal attenuation behavior of the split ring resonator. Therefore, even small changes in tire condition can be detected and communicated to the driver. For example, if a tire ply containing one or more split ring resonators contacts the road surface (e.g., rotates forward) and thereby degrades and/or deforms over time, the tire ply is degrading and/or deforming. The resonance of the split ring resonator within the fabric layer may change. Additionally, other detectable changes may occur during a drift (e.g., lateral movement) scenario such that the signal response of the affected tire ply and/or tread layer including the split ring resonator may indicate that The presence or absence of the tread layer and the degree of wear. Therefore, the split ring resonator can accurately and precisely detect sudden or gradual changes in weather or other environmental conditions (eg, performing driving maneuvers).

Detectable changes and/or shifts in the RF range resonant frequency response of a split ring resonator can be induced by stimulating the RF resonant material within each split ring resonator using an electromagnetic (EM) signal with a known frequency. detection. In some configurations, the EM signal may be initially output by an antenna (also mounted on the vehicle) and/or by patterned resonant circuits (referred to herein as "resonators") mounted in one or more wheel wells. It can be 3D printed onto the carcass ply) for further dissemination. In this way, the attenuation and/or frequency shift associated with the respective split ring resonator can be electronically observed and analyzed with respect to the emitted signal to measure current environmental conditions. Additionally, changes in the RF resonant frequency (or frequencies) can be observed and compared to known and discrete calibration points to determine one or more defined detections on the body of the vehicle at a given moment in time. Tire pressure measured at point.

Conventional use of tires, such as that encountered with most road or off-road tires during road driving, may cause multiple portions of the tire to deform slightly, which may result in a change in the natural RF resonance frequency of the respective split ring resonator ( At this time, y is the RF signal "acoustic pulse wave"). Such changes in natural resonant frequencies (associated with the currently disclosed carbons forming various split ring resonators) can be detected and compared to known calibration points to determine conditions within the tire. Systems using antennas in conjunction with the currently disclosed split ring resonators incorporated within the tire ply may be adapted to sense changes in tire ply properties and report to associated telemetry equipment within the vehicle.

Of course, it should be understood that although the application of split ring resonators is described in detail with respect to the tire (and automotive industry), such applications may be equally applicable to other industries (e.g., aerospace, construction, materials, mining, petroleum, concrete wait).

The currently disclosed split ring resonators can be tuned to detect even subtler changes in the physical properties of individual tire plies (and/or any materials or substances in or on which the split ring resonators are embedded), including due to loading. Changes in air pressure on the skin or due to any external force exerted in/on the tire. Such changes can be detected by "probing" (e.g., emitting an RF signal and later observing and analyzing the RF signal) and subsequently processing a unique set of characteristics for a given tire ply, tread layer, or other surface or area. The detected properties (e.g., "signatures"), as demonstrated by, for example, frequency domain returns. Various mechanisms for calibrating observed signal features and processing returned features are discussed. Methods for manufacturing tires with passive embedded sensors in tuned carbon structures that interact with elastomers are disclosed. For example, the mechanism used to manufacture tires from multiple plies may affect the split-ring resonator natural resonant frequency behavior. Additionally, the tire may be constructed to include a plurality of tire plies, each tire ply incorporating a different tuned carbon with a unique tuned carbonaceous microstructure, which may be micron sized, Or any one or more of nanometer, micrometer, or even mesoscopic particle size down to the millimeter (mm) level.

The disclosed split ring resonators may permit self-powered characteristics from resonances in the GHz and MHz range, such as by triboelectric generators (e.g., upon rotation of, for example, vehicle tires and their repeated friction and/or contact with pavement or ground) It is possible to generate electric current). Such tribological components may be integrated or otherwise incorporated within multiple steel belts between elastomeric layers in one or more carrier tire plies. In this manner, the split ring resonator can be charged (and/or powered) by a triboelectric generator to cause the resonator to resonate (and therefore emit an RF signal) and discharge. Resonators can be configured to adapt to repeated charge-discharge cycles and assume any one or more of a variety of shapes and/or patterns, including elliptical shapes with inherent resonant values or properties (based on the materials from which they are formed and/or construction) .

Changes in the shape or orientation of the resonator may result in corresponding changes in any associated resonance constants. Therefore, due to deformation, for example, under static conditions like internal tire pressure, or under dynamic conditions such as those encountered when driving over round road spikes (or any similar deformation of the material in or on which the split ring resonator is visible) Any changes in the physical properties of the tire resulting from deformation may alter the shape or orientation of the respective split ring resonators. Different resonator modes (e.g., in addition to or instead of split-ring resonators) can be used to respond to one type of deformation versus another (such as to refer to the lateral deformation encountered when moving around a curve versus driving on paved or rough surfaces). responds with greater sensitivity than the vertical motion encountered during . In addition to the configuration of the split ring resonator that changes signal response behavior based on tire deformation, the split ring resonator can also communicate electronically with other signal attenuation detection capabilities, such as those placed in the wheel well or even the rim. associated with digital signal processing, DSP, computer chips and/or sensors. DSP can be used with external transceivers (semiconductor chips) for stimulus and response; optionally. The split ring resonator can also communicate with the triboelectric generator incorporated into each tire ply and exhibit resonant behavior that can be detected by an external receiver.

The illustrative information presented is intended to explain the various architectures (including optional architectures) and uses as found in the detailed description. It should be noted in particular that this information is set forth for illustrative purposes (to provide as thorough a description as possible) and should not be construed as limiting in any way. Any of the following features may be combined, as appropriate, with or without the exclusion of other features described.

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle condition detection system 100 , for example, intended to be equipped on a vehicle, such as a car and/or a truck. The vehicle condition detection system 100 may include sensors, such as a tuned RF resonance component 108 (eg, a split ring resonator, such as the split ring resonator shown in Figure 8 ). Each tuned RF resonant component 108 may be formed from a variety of carbon-based microstructured materials, aggregates, agglomerates, and/or the like, such as Stowell et al.'s February 7, 2020 application titled "3D Self-Assembled Multi- Modal Carbon-Based Particle", the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference for all purposes. The tuned RF resonance component 108 may be incorporated into a belt on a vehicle, such as a conventional driver-driven automobile or a fully autonomous transportation pod or vehicle capable of moving vehicle occupants without a human driver. Any one or more of the sensor 104 , the hose sensor 105 , the tire sensor 106 and the transceiver antenna 102 .

Tuned RF resonant component 108 may be configured to communicate electronically and/or wirelessly (such as by measuring signal frequency offset or attenuation) with any one or more of the following: transceiver 114 ; carrier central processing unit 116 ; vehicle sensor data receiving unit 118 ; vehicle actuator control unit 120 ; and actuators 122 including doors, windows, locks (collectively 124 ); engine controls 126 ; navigation/ Head-up display 128 ; suspension controls 129 ; and wing trim 130 . Tuned RF resonant component 108 may use transceiver 114 to cause a shift in the observed frequency of the transmitted RF signal via transmitted RF signal 110 and / or returned RF signal 112 (referred to as a "frequency shift", meaning a shift in frequency). any changes). Reference to a returned RF signal 112 corresponding to a transmitted RF signal 110 may refer to the electronic detection of a frequency shift or attenuation of the transmitted RF signal 110 relative to one or more tuned RF resonant components 108 , which The tuned RF resonance component is integrated into any one or more of the belt sensor 104 , hose sensor 105 , tire sensor 106 , transceiver antenna 102 on the vehicle, and/or the like (e.g., not the actual physical reflection or return of the signal from the sensor). The transmitted RF signal 110 and the returned RF signal 112 may communicate with any one of the vehicle central processing unit 116 , the vehicle sensor data receiving unit 118 , the vehicle actuator control unit 120 and/or the actuator 122 , or communicated by (and thus evaluated by) each of the above. The vehicle condition detection system 100 may be implemented using any suitable combination of software and hardware.

Any one or more of the various sensors depicted in the vehicle condition detection system 100 may be formed from carbon-based microstructures that are tuned to be "detected" (meaning emitted). Achieve specific RF resonance behavior when RF signals impact or otherwise come into contact with). Vehicle condition detection system 100 (or any aspect thereof) may be configured to be implemented in any conceivable vehicle use application, region, or environment, such as in sleet, hail, snow, ice, frost, etc. , mud, sand, debris, uneven terrain, water and/or similar adverse weather conditions.

The tuned RF resonance component 108 may be disposed around and/or on the vehicle (such as in the cockpit, engine compartment, or trunk, or on the body of the vehicle). As shown in Figure 1 , the tuned RF resonance component may include a belt sensor 104 , a hose sensor 105 , a tire sensor 106 , and a transceiver antenna 102 , any one or more of which may be used in modern The production period in vehicles is carried out in modern vehicles or (alternatively) retrofitted to pre-existing vehicles, regardless of the age and/or condition of such vehicles. Tuned RF resonance component 108 may be formed in part using readily available materials, such as fiberglass (such as for aircraft wings) or rubber (such as for tires) or glass (eg, for windshields). Such conventional materials may be combined with carbon-based materials, growths, agglomerates, aggregates, sheets, particles, and/or the like, such as on the fly in a reaction chamber or reactor from carbonaceous gaseous species. Materials that are core and formulated to: (1) increase the mechanical (such as tensile, compression, shear, strain, deformation, and/or the like) strength of the composite materials in which they are incorporated; and/or (2) Resonance at a specific frequency or set of frequencies (in the range of 10 GHz to 100 GHz). The variables that determine the material's RF resonance properties and behavior can be controlled independently of the variables responsible for controlling the material's strength.

Radio frequency (RF) based stimulation, such as that emitted by the transceiver 114 or emitted by the resonator, may be used to provide a signal to the tuned RF resonant component 108 , the actuator 122 (and/or the like, such as in the tuned RF resonant component 108 or sensors implemented on the device) emit RF signals to detect their respective resonant frequencies or frequencies and the frequency shifts and patterns observed in the attenuation of the emitted signal (which may be affected by internal or external conditions) . For example, if a tuned RF resonant component (such as tire sensor 106 ) is specifically prepared (referred to as being "tuned") to resonate at a frequency of approximately 3 GHz, then when stimulated by a 3 GHz RF signal, the tire sensing The device 106 may emit resonant resonance or sympathetic vibrations (referring to a harmonic phenomenon in which a previously passive string or vibrating body responds to external vibrations with a harmonic similarity to the external vibrations).

These sympathetic vibrations can occur at the stimulus frequency and in overtones or side lobes derived from the 3 GHz fundamental tone. If the tuned resonant component (tuned RF resonant component 108 ) has been tuned to resonate at 2 GHz, then when the tuned resonant component is stimulated by a 2 GHz RF signal, the tuned resonant component will emit sympathetic vibrations as described. These sympathetic vibrations will occur at the stimulus frequency and in the overtones or side lobes (in engineering, the local maximum of the far-field radiation pattern of an antenna or other radiating source) derived from the 2 GHz fundamental. does not occur in the main lobe). Many additional tuned resonant components can be located near the RF transmitter. The RF transmitter can be controlled to transmit first a 2 GHz pulse wave, then a 3 GHz pulse wave, then a 4 GHz pulse wave, and so on. This series of acoustic pulse waves with different and increasing frequencies can be called a "chirp".

Adjacent tire plies within the tire body (such as tire plies in contact with each other), such as the tire plies generally shown in Figures 5-7 , may have different concentration levels or combinations of carbon-based microstructures. The state is defined to define the sensors incorporated in the (respective) tire body ply and/or tread layer to resonate at different frequencies that are non-harmonic with each other. That is, non-harmonic plies may ensure different and easily identifiable detection of a particular tire body ply and/or tread layer (or other surface or material) relative to others, where harmonics are responsible for Minimal likelihood of confusion due to signal interference (or otherwise associated with harmonics).

The transceiver 114 (and/or resonator, not shown in FIG . 1 ) may be configured to transmit the transmitted RF signal 110 to any one or more of the tuned RF resonant components 108 to digitally identify from the tuned RF signal 110 . Frequency shift and/or attenuation of the returned RF signal 112 from any one or more of the RF resonant components 108 . Such "return" signal 112 can be processed into digital information, which can be electronically transmitted to the vehicle central processing unit 116 , which in conjunction with the vehicle sensor data receiving unit 118 and/or the vehicle The actuator control unit 120 interacts with the vehicle sensor data receiving unit and/or the vehicle actuator control unit to send additional vehicle performance related signals based on the received sensor data. Return signal 112 may at least partially control actuator 122 . That is, the vehicle actuator control unit 120 may control the actuator 122 to respond based on information received from the vehicle sensor data receiving unit 118 regarding vehicle component wear indicated by the tuned RF component in communication with the transceiver 114 or Degraded feedback operates any one or more of doors, windows, locks 124 , engine controls 126 , navigation/head-up display 128 , suspension controls 129, and/or wing trim 130 .

Detection of road debris and adverse weather conditions while monitoring the behavior of the returning RF signal 111 (such as frequency shifts and/or attenuation) may, for example, cause the actuator 122 to trigger corresponding changes in the suspension control 129 . Such changes may include, for example, softening the suspension settings to accommodate driving over road debris, and then tightening the suspension settings to accommodate the enhanced vehicle responsiveness that driving during heavy rain (and therefore low traction) conditions may require. There are many variations of such control by the vehicle actuator control unit 120 , in which any conceivable condition external to the vehicle may be detected by the transceiver (such as by the transmitted RF signal 110 and/or frequency shift and/or attenuation of the returned RF signal 112 ).

Any tuned RF resonant component 108 forming the described sensor can be tuned to resonate at a specific frequency when stimulated, where a defined frequency shift (resulting from the carbon-based microstructure) can be created to indicate that the sensor is coupled to One or more signal characteristics of the material or conditions of the material.

The time variance or deviation (TDEV) of the frequency shift (such as that shown in the signal characteristics) in the returned RF signal 112 (referred to as the temporal stability of the phase x versus the observation interval τ of the measurement clock source; the time deviation is therefore Measurements that form a standard deviation type of signal indicating temporal instability of a signal source may correspond to changes in the time variance of the sensor's environment and/or changes in the time variance of the sensor itself. Accordingly, the signal processing system (such as any one or more of the vehicle central processing unit 116 , the vehicle sensor data receiving unit 118 , and/or the vehicle actuator control unit 120, etc.) may be configured to operate according to the TDEV principles to analyze signals associated with the sensor (such as the transmitted RF signal 110 and the returned RF signal 112 ). The results of such analysis, such as signature analysis, may be communicated to the vehicle central processing unit 116 , which may (in turn) transmit commands to the vehicle actuator control unit 120 to take appropriate responsive action. In some configurations, such responsive actions taken by actuators 122 may involve at least some human driver input, while in other configurations, vehicle condition detection system 100 may function in a completely self-contained manner, whereby This allows such equipped vehicles to resolve component performance issues they experience when fully unmanned. Additionally, the vehicle central processing unit 116 may communicate with one or more upstream components 113 (e.g., computing devices associated with racing applications housed in a fixed area) and/or components responsible for acquiring and/or processing and tuning RF resonances. 108 All data associated with the racing mission control unit 119 is communicated electronically.

Figure 2 illustrates a signal processing system 200 that analyzes transmitted and/or returned RF signals and frequency-conducts the RF signals with a sensor formed from a tuned RF resonant material containing carbon, according to one embodiment. shift and/or attenuate. Optionally, signal processing system 200 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, signal processing system 200 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, Figure 2 shows a block diagram of a signal processing system 200 , which may include a surface sensor 260 and an embedded sensor 270 , any one or more of which may be so configured with the others. Environmental changes 250 of the vehicle (referring to the vehicle equipped with the area sensor 260 and the embedded sensor 270 ) are communicated electronically. The signal processing system 200 may also include a transceiver 214 , a signature analysis module 254 , and a vehicle central processing unit 216 , any one or more of which may electronically communicate with the others.

In some embodiments, the embedded sensor 270 (which may be embedded within a material such as tire ply) may employ and/or be powered by self-powered telemetry including also incorporated into the enclosure. Frictional energy generators within the material of the respective sensor (not shown in Figure 2 ). Thus, a friction energy generator can generate usable current and/or electricity by collecting electrostatic charge accumulated between, for example, a rotating tire or wheel and the pavement it is in contact with to power a resonant circuit (to be discussed in more detail herein). Description), the resonant circuit can then resonate to emit an RF signal at a known frequency. Therefore, an externally mounted transceiver unit, such as one mounted in each wheel well of a vehicle, may emit RF signals which are further propagated by resonant circuits configured here The center is triboelectrically powered and embedded in the ply of the tire body. Likewise, the frequency shift and/or amplitude attenuation of the transmitted signal is received and analyzed, for example, by the feature analysis module 254 and/or the vehicle central processing unit 216 .

Self-powered telemetry, which refers to the collection of measurements or other data at remote or inaccessible points and the automatic transmission of measurements or other data to a receiving device for monitoring, can be incorporated into vehicle tires. As described herein, self-powered telemetry involves utilizing frictional charge generation within the tire, storing that charge, and subsequently discharging the stored charge to or through a resonant circuit for use in a resonant circuit (referring to an inductor represented by the letter L and an inductor represented by the letter L). The "ringing" (referring to the oscillation of the resonant circuit responsible for the further emission of the RF signal) that occurs during the discharge of capacitors represented by the letter C connected together to form an RF signal at a specific frequency or frequencies ).

Generally, acoustic pulse wave stimulation may be provided in one of two possible configurations of the presently disclosed vehicle component wear detection systems, including those that rely on the wear and tear of tires (or are intended to be used to monitor wear resulting from continued use). signals or "acoustic pulse waves" generated by a stimulus source (such as a conventional transceiver) external to other vehicle components) (such as incorporated into each wheel well of a vehicle so equipped); or using within tires (also referred to as Friction energy generating devices embedded in the tire ply, similar to sensors with carbon-based microstructures, which collect the original energy between the rotating wheel and/or tire and the ground or pavement in contact with it. Frictional energy gained from friction will be wasted. Tribology, as commonly understood and referred to herein, means the scientific and engineering study of surfaces that interact in relative motion. Such friction energy generating devices can provide power to in-tire resonant devices, which in turn perform self-emitting tire property telemetry.

Either of the two "acoustic pulse wave" stimulation generators or providers discussed above can have a complex resonance frequency (CRf) component from about 10 to 99 GHz (e.g., due to the small size of structures such as graphene flakes). resonance frequency) and has lower frequency resonances in the KHz range due to the relatively large size of the resonance within the tire in question. In general, CRf can be equated to a function of the natural resonant frequency of the elastomer component, the natural resonant frequency of the carbon component, the ratio/total of the constituent components, and the geometry of the resonating device within the tire.

The signal processing system 200 is used to analyze signal characteristics when a sensor formed of carbon-based microstructures is stimulated (by digitally observing any one or more of the emitted RF signal 210 and/or the returning RF signal 212 frequency shift and/or attenuation). As a result of stimulation, a chirp signal sensor resonating at a chirp/acoustic pulse frequency shifts the emission frequency by resonating at or near its corresponding tuning frequency and/or "Response" by attenuating the amplitude of the transmitted signal. When an environmental change occurs while the chirp/sonic pulse wave is being emitted (such as an environmental change that causes tire body ply and/or tread layer wear), the "return" signal can be monitored for changes in modulation - higher than the tuning frequency or Low. Thus, transceiver 214 may be configured to receive returning RF signals 212 that are representative of the surface they probe, and so on.

Of course, it should also be understood that, although the context of Figures 1 through 18 primarily relates to automotive applications of split ring resonators, such teachings are equally applicable to other scenarios and industries detailed in this article (including concrete, materials science, aerospace, etc.) aerospace, drones and flying vehicles, mining materials, petroleum industry components, etc.). Therefore, the teachings of this article regarding automobiles (and specifically, tires) can be applied in the context of these other industries, some of which will be described in more detail below.

The aforementioned chirp/acoustic pulse wave signals may be transmitted by transceiver 214 (such as by inaudible RF signals, pulses, vibrations, and/or similar transmissions). Additionally, a "return" signal may be received by transceiver 214 . As shown, a chirp signal may occur as a repeating sequence of chirps (such as transmitted RF signal 210 ). For example, a chirp signal sequence may be formed from a pattern that includes a 1 GHz sonic pulse wave, then a 2 GHz sonic pulse wave, then a 3 GHz sonic pulse wave, and so on. The entire chirp signal sequence may be repeated continuously as a whole. There may be a brief period of time between each acoustic pulse wave such that the return signal from the resonant material (return RF signal 212 ) may be received immediately after the completion of the acoustic pulse wave. Alternatively or additionally, the signal corresponding to the acoustic pulse wave stimulation and the observed "response" signal may occur simultaneously and/or along the same general path or route. The signature analysis module can use digital signal processing technology to distinguish the observed "response" signal from the acoustic pulse wave signal. In situations where the returned response includes energy across multiple different frequencies (such as overtones, side lobes, etc.), a notch filter can be used to filter the stimulus. The return signal received by the transceiver may be sent to the signature analysis module 254 , which in turn may send the processed signal to the vehicle central processing unit 216 . The foregoing discussion of Figure 2 includes discussion of sensors formed from carbon-containing tuned resonant materials and may also refer to the sensing stack.

The disclosed sensors may be incorporated into tire layers, including, for example, resin layers that may be layered with gaps between additional carbon fiber layers within the tire ply. Each layer of carbonaceous resin can be formulated differently to resonate at a different expected or desired tuning frequency. The physical phenomenon of material resonance can be described with respect to the corresponding molecular composition. For example, a layer with a first defined structure (such as a first molecular structure) will resonate at a first frequency, while a layer with a second different molecular structure may resonate at a second different frequency.

Materials with a specific molecular structure contained in a layer will resonate at a first tuned frequency when the layer is in a low energy state and will resonate at a second, different frequency when the material in the layer is in an induced higher energy state. For example, materials in a layer that exhibit a specific molecular structure can be tuned to resonate at 3 GHz when the layer is in its natural, undeformed, low-energy state. Conversely, the same layer can resonate at 2.95 GHz when the layer is at least partially deformed from its natural, undeformed, low energy state. As a result, the phenomenon can be adapted to detect with high fidelity and accuracy even the smallest anomalies of the tire surface, such as being in contact with the road surface (such as pavement) and experiencing increased wear at some local contact area. Even under time-sensitive race day conditions, cars competing on demanding circuits (high-tech, windy tracks with sharp turns and rapid elevation changes) can benefit from this type of localized tire wear or degradation information. Benefit from making informed tire replacement decisions.

The frequency shift phenomenon described above (such as a shift from resonance at a frequency of 3 GHz to resonance at a frequency of 2.95 GHz) may be illustrated and discussed with reference to FIGS. 24B1 to 24B2 and will be discussed below.

Carbonaceous materials that are tuned to exhibit specific resonant frequencies when detected by RF signals, such as carbonaceous materials that include carbon-based microstructures, can be tuned by tailoring the specific compounds that make up the materials to have specific electrical impedances. Exhibits a specific resonance curve. Different electrical impedances in turn correspond to different frequency response curves.

Impedance describes the difficulty with which alternating current (AC) current flows through a component. In the frequency domain, impedance is a complex number with real and imaginary parts due to the structure appearing as an inductor. The imaginary part is the inductive reactance (the reaction of a circuit element on the flow of current due to the inductance or capacitance of the element; for the same applied voltage, a larger reactance results in a smaller current) component X _L , which is based on Frequency f and inductance L of a specific structure: (Equation 1)

As the receiving frequency increases, the reactance also increases, so that at a certain frequency threshold, the measured strength (amplitude) of the transmitted signal may attenuate. The inductance L is affected by the electrical impedance Z of the material, where Z is related to material properties such as magnetic permeability μ and permittivity ε. The relationship is as follows: (Equation 2)

Therefore, adjustments in material properties change the electrical impedance Z, thus affecting the inductance L and therefore the reactance X _L .

Carbon-containing structures with different inductances can exhibit different frequency responses (when used to create sensors for the aforementioned systems), such as those published by Anzelmo et al. on October 1, 2019 titled "Carbon and Elastomer Integration" The carbon-containing structure disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,428,197, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. That is, a carbon-containing structure with a high inductance L (based on electrical impedance Z) will reach a specific reactance at a lower frequency than another carbon-containing structure with a lower inductance.

Material properties such as magnetic permeability, permittivity, and electrical conductivity may also be considered when formulating compounds that are to be tuned to a specific electrical impedance. Furthermore, it was observed that when the structure is placed under tension-inducing conditions, such as when the structure is slightly deformed (such as, thereby slightly changing the physical properties of the structure), the first carbon-containing structure will resonate at a first frequency, while the first carbon-containing structure will resonate at a first frequency. The two-carbon-containing structure will resonate at a second frequency.

Example carbon-containing structures that can resonate at a first frequency (eg, as shown in Figures 18A - 18Y ) may be associated with an equivalent circuit including capacitor C ₁ and inductor L ₁ . The frequency _f1 is given by the following equation: (Equation 3)

Deformation of the carbon-containing structure may in turn change the inductance and/or capacitance of the structure. Such changes may be related to the equivalent circuit including capacitor C ₂ and inductor L ₂ . The frequency _f2 is given by the following equation: (Equation 4)

Figure 3 illustrates a feature classification system 300 according to one embodiment. Optionally, feature classification system 300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, feature classification system 300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

Feature classification system 300 processes signals received by sensors formed from carbon-containing tuned resonant materials. Feature classification system 300 can be implemented in any physical environment or weather conditions. Figure 3 relates to incorporating tuned resonant sensing materials into automotive components to detect, classify and/or detect signals (such as signatures) received from sensors mounted in a vehicle; classification. In operation 302 , an acoustic pulse wave signal of a selected acoustic pulse wave frequency is transmitted. The acoustic pulse wave signal generation mechanism and the acoustic pulse wave transmission mechanism can be implemented by any known technology. For example, a transmitter module can generate a selected frequency of 3 GHz and use one or more antennas to radiate the signal. The design and location of the tuned antenna (such as mounted on and/or in any one or more wheel wells or vehicles) may correspond to any tuned antenna geometry, material, and/or location such that the intensity of the acoustic pulse wave is sufficient to generate sound in the vicinity. Induced (RF) resonance in the sensor. A plurality of tuned antennas are disposed on or in structural members near corresponding sensors. Therefore, when nearby surface sensors are stimulated by acoustic pulse waves, they may resonate with certain characteristics. The feature may be received (in operation 304 ) and stored in a data set including the received feature 310 . The sequence of transmitting acoustic pulse waves followed by receiving signatures may be repeated in a cycle.

The acoustic pulse wave frequency may be changed during iteration through the loop (operation 308 ). Therefore, when operation 304 is performed in a loop, operation 304 may store features 312 , including the first feature 312 ₁ , the second feature 312 ₂ , up to the Nth feature 312 _N . The number of iterations may be controlled by decision 306 . When the "NO" branch of decision 306 is taken (such as when there are no other additional pulse waves to transmit), then the received features may be provided (in operation 314 ) to a digital signal processing module (such as in FIG. 2 An example of feature analysis module 254 is shown). The digital signal processing module classifies the features against a set of calibration points 318 (operation 316 ). Calibration points can be configured to correspond to specific pulse wave frequencies. For example, calibration points 318 may include a first calibration point 320 1 that may correspond to a first acoustic pulse wave and a first return characteristic near 3 GHz, a second calibration point 320 ₁ that may correspond to a second acoustic pulse wave and a second return characteristic near 2 GHz. the second calibration point 320 ₂ , and so on for any integer value “N” calibration points (up to the Nth calibration point 320 _N ).

In operation 320 , the classified signal is sent to the vehicle central processing unit (such as the vehicle central processing unit 116 of FIG. 1 ). The classified signals may be relayed by the vehicle central processing unit 116 to an upstream repository hosting a computerized database configured to host and/or run machine learning algorithms. Therefore, a large number of stimuli related to signals, classified signals and signal responses can be captured for subsequent data aggregation and processing. The database is computationally prepared by providing a given set of sensory measurements, meaning "trained," that the set of sensory measurements may be related to a condition or diagnosis related to vehicle performance (such as failure due to repeated use). Tire degradation) related. If the measured deflection (such as air pressure) of a particular portion of the wing assembly during vehicle operation differs from the measured deflection (such as air pressure) of a different portion of the wing assembly, a possible diagnosis may be that one tire is under-inflated and therefore The vehicle ride height is inconsistent, causing the airflow over, on and/or around the vehicle to exhibit proportional inconsistencies, as detected by deflection of the wing assembly. Other potential conditions or diagnoses can also be determined through machine learning systems. Such status and/or diagnostic and/or support data may be transmitted back to the vehicle to complete the feedback loop. Instruments in the vehicle provide visualization that can be manipulated (such as by a driver or engineer).

4 illustrates a series of tire condition parameters sensed from changes in RF resonance of various layers of carbon-containing tuned RF resonance material, according to one embodiment.

4 illustrates a series of tire condition parameters 400 sensed from changes in RF resonance of various layers of carbon-containing tuned RF resonance material, according to one embodiment. Optionally, tire condition parameter 400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, tire condition parameters 400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, Figure 4 illustrates various physical properties or aspects (tire condition parameter 400 ) associated with incorporating tuned resonance sensing materials into automotive components such as tires. Here, the figure is presented with respect to addressing the deployment of survivable sensors in tires, including non-pneumatic tires as well as pneumatic tires. The structure of the tire can correspond to radial tires, bias ply tires, tubeless tires, solid tires, run-flat tires, etc. Tires can be used on any type of vehicle and/or vehicle-related equipment and/or accessories. Such vehicles may include aircraft, ATVs, automobiles, construction equipment, dump trucks, bulldozers, farm equipment, forklifts, golf carts, harvesters, lift trucks, mopeds, motorcycles, off-road vehicles, race cars , riding lawn mowers, tractors, trailers, trucks, wheelchairs, etc. In addition to or in place of the vehicles presented, the tires may also be used on non-motorized vehicles, equipment and accessories, such as bicycles, tricycles, unicycles, lawn mowers, wheelchairs, trolleys, etc.

The parameters shown in Figure 4 are examples only, and other variations may exist or otherwise be prepared to achieve specific desired performance characteristics for many conceivable end-use scenarios, including being designed to provide increased durability ( Truck tires that may come at the expense of road adhesion) or soft racing tires designed to provide maximum road adhesion (which may come at the expense of longevity).

Various carbon structures can be used in different formulations with other non-carbon materials integrated into the tire, followed by mechanical analysis to determine individual tire characteristics. Some of these properties can be determined empirically through direct testing, while other properties are determined based on measurements and extrapolation of data. For example, rolling uniformity can be determined by sensing changes in force as the tire rolls on a uniform surface such as a roller, while tread life is based on short-term wear tests, the results of which are extrapolated to derive predictions. tread service life value.

More tire characteristics can be measured, but some of these measurement techniques may cause physical damage to the tire, so measurements are made at desired points in the life of the tire. In contrast, the use of survivable sensors embedded in the tire allows such otherwise destructive measurements to be made throughout the life of the tire. For example, detection of response signals based on detection of RF signals from sensors embedded in tires can be used for such sensing. Additionally, as discussed herein, each body ply and/or tread layer of a tire includes a durable (also referred to as "survivable") sensor that is tuned to resonate at a specific frequency.

Plies used in tires can be formulated to combine the carbonaceous structure with other materials to achieve a specific material composition that exhibits desired performance characteristics, such as handling and durability. Spectral analysis can be performed on the natural resonant frequency (or frequencies) of a specific material composition to form a spectral curve of the specific material composition. This spectral curve can be used as a calibration baseline for the material. When the body ply and/or tread layer of the tire undergoes deformation, the spectral curve changes, and these spectral curve changes can be used as additional calibration points (such as calibration point 318 ). Many such calibration points can be generated by testing, and such calibration points can then be used to measure deformation.

Analysis of the spectral response leads to quantitative measurements of many tire parameters. Tire parameters that can be determined based on the characteristic analysis may include, for example, tread life 422 , handling at the first temperature 428 , handling at the second temperature 426 , rolling economy at the first temperature 430 , The following are rolling economy 432 , rolling uniformity 436 and braking uniformity 438 .

A response, such as a response expressed spectrally based on a return acoustic pulse wave signal received from a sensor embedded in the material of the tire ply, may represent the observed deformation. That is, a certain type of tire deformation will correspond to a certain type of specific response, such that a mapping can be established between the response or type of response and the type of degradation. Furthermore, the time-varying changes in the tire's spectral response as it undergoes in-situ deformation can be used to determine many environmental conditions. In tires constructed using multiple plies, each body ply and/or tread layer may be formulated to exhibit a specific tuning frequency or frequency range. For example, Figure 5 (shown below) shows a schematic diagram for constructing a tire from multiple plies, each of the multiple plies having a different specific tuning frequency or frequency range.

5 illustrates a schematic diagram 500 of an apparatus for tuning multiple tires by selecting carbon-containing tuning RF resonance materials from separate and independent reactors for incorporation into the body of a single tire assembly, according to one embodiment. Ply. Optionally, schematic diagram 500 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, diagram 500 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

Schematic 500 may be used to fine-tune or adjust multiple body plies and/or tread layers of a tire by selecting carbon-containing tuning resonance materials for incorporation into a tire assembly or structure that may be used in any implemented in the environment. Figure 5 shows how different carbons are mixed into tire compound formulations which are then assembled into multi-ply tires. The resulting multi-ply tires exhibit various resonance sensitivity and frequency shifting properties.

Each of the plurality of reactors (such as reactor 552 ₁ , reactor 552 ₂ , reactor 552 ₃ and reactor 552 ₄ ) produces (or otherwise delivers or provides) a specific carbon additive/filler to the network, which The path is adjusted to obtain a specific defined spectrum curve. Carbon additives, such as first tuning carbon 554 , second tuning carbon 556 , third tuning carbon 558 , and fourth tuning carbon 560 , may be mixed with other (carbon-based or non-carbon-based) composite materials 550 . Any known technique may be used to mix, heat, pre-treat, post-treat or otherwise combine specific carbon additives with other composite materials. Mixers such as mixer 562 ₁ , mixer 562 ₂ , mixer 562 ₃ and mixer 562 ₄ are presented to demonstrate how different tuned carbons may be introduced into various components of the tire. Other techniques for tire assembly may involve other construction techniques and/or other components including the tire. Any known technology for multi-ply tires can be used. Additionally, a particular body ply and/or tread layer (such as a set of body plies and/or tread layers 568 , including body ply and/or tread layer _568i , body ply and/or tread layer 568 _2. The spectrum curves of the main body ply and/or tread layer 568 ₃ and the main body ply and/or tread layer 568 ₄ ) can be determined based on the characteristics of the specific main body ply and/or tread layer formula. For example, based on stimulus and response characteristics, a first body ply and/or tread layer formulation (such as body ply and/or tread layer formulation 564 ₁ ) may exhibit a first spectral curve, while a second body ply and/or tread layer formulation 564 1 And/or a tread layer formulation (such as body ply and/or tread layer formulation 564 ₂ ) may exhibit a second spectral curve.

The resulting different formulations such as body ply and/or tread layer formulation 564 ₁ , body ply and/or tread layer formulation 564 ₂ , body ply and/or tread layer formulation 564 ₃ and body ply and /or tread formulation 564 ₄ ) for use in different body plies and/or tread layers forming tire assembly 566 , each of the body plies and/or tread layers exhibiting corresponding spectrum curve.

6 illustrates a plurality of example sets of conditional characteristics 600 that may be emitted from a new tire formed from multiple layers of carbon-containing tuned RF resonant materials, according to one embodiment. Optionally, the example conditional feature 600 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, the example conditional feature 600 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

FIG. 6 illustrates a second set of example conditional characteristics 600 for emission from a tire formed from multiple layers of carbon-containing tuning resonance material. Example conditional feature 600 , or any aspect thereof, may be emitted in any environment. Figure 6 shows multiple body plies and/or tread layers of a new tire, such as body ply and/or tread layer #1, body ply and/or tread layer #2, and body ply and/or tread layer #2. or tread layer #3). The term "ply", as used in this example and elsewhere with reference to any one or more of the presented embodiments, may refer to a ply or layer within the tire body, or to a portion of the tire tread that projects radially outwardly away from the tire body. layer intended for use in contact with hard pavement or ground contact for off-road tires). In one embodiment, the first body ply and/or the tread layer can be formulated with tuned carbon (referring to being made with a specific formula), so that the first body ply and/or the tread layer reacts with a 1.0 GHz sonic pulse wave. A stimulus, such as the first sonic pulse wave 602 , resonates at 1.0 GHz when stimulated. Similarly, the second body ply and/or tread layer is formulated with tuned carbon such that the second body ply and/or tread layer reacts when stimulated with a 2.0 GHz sonic wave (such as first sonic wave 604 ) Resonates at 2.0 GHz when stimulated. In addition, the third body ply and/or tread layer is formulated with tuned carbon such that the third body ply and/or tread layer is stimulated with a 3.0 GHz sonic pulse wave (such as third sonic pulse wave 606 ). resonates at 3.0 GHz. As shown by first response 608 , second response 610 , and third response 614 , all three body plies and/or tread layers are responsive at their respective tuned frequencies.

The transceiver antenna may be located in and/or on the wheel well of the corresponding tire (and/or anywhere near the split ring resonator). Systems processing any such generated response signals may be configured to distinguish them from other potential responses generated from other surfaces, such as other non-target tires of the vehicle. For example, even though the right front tire mounted on the vehicle's right front wheel can respond to acoustic pulse waves emitted from a transceiver antenna located in the vehicle's left front wheel well, the response signal from the right front tire is not the same as the response signal from the vehicle's left front tire. will be significantly attenuated (and therefore recognized) compared to the response signal. In various embodiments, the transceiver antenna may be positioned within a few inches of the split ring resonator, or 5 to 10 meters (or even further) as desired. Such positioning may vary with transmitter-receiver power.

When the transceiver antenna is located in the wheel well of the corresponding tire, the response from the corresponding tire will be attenuated relative to the acoustic pulse wave stimulation. For example, the response from the corresponding tire will be attenuated by 9 decibels (–9 dB) or more relative to the sonic pulse wave stimulus, or may be attenuated by 18 decibels (–18 dB) or more relative to the sonic pulse wave stimulus, or may be attenuated relative to the sonic pulse wave stimulus by 9 decibels (–9 dB) or more. Acoustic pulse wave stimulation is attenuated by 36 decibels (–36 dB) or more, or may be attenuated relative to acoustic pulse wave stimulation by 72 decibels (–72 dB) or more. In some cases, the PW signal generator is designed to be combined with a transceiver antenna located in the wheel well so that the PW response of the corresponding tire is attenuated by no more than 75 dB (–75 dB).

7 illustrates a plurality of example sets of conditional characteristics 700 that may be emitted from a new tire formed from multiple layers of carbon-containing tuned RF resonant materials, according to one embodiment. Optionally, example conditional feature 700 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, the example conditional feature 700 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, a third set of example condition signatures 700 are emitted from a tire after some of the carbon-containing tuning resonance material has worn away. Optionally, one or more variations of the example conditional feature 700 , or any aspect thereof, may be implemented within the context of the architecture and functionality of the embodiments described herein. Example conditional feature 700 , or any aspect thereof, may be emitted in any environment.

In this example, the tires are worn. More specifically, the outermost body ply and/or tread layer is completely worn. Therefore, 1.0 GHz acoustic pulse stimulation will not result in a response from the outermost plies. This is shown in the diagram as first response attenuation 702 . As the tire continues to experience tread wear, the acoustic pulse wave response from the next body ply and/or tread layer, the acoustic pulse wave response from the next consecutive body ply and/or tread layer, etc. will attenuate , this attenuation can be used to measure the total tread wear of the tire. Alternatively, the same tuning carbon can be used in all plies. Tread wear and other indications of the tire can be determined based on signal characteristics returned from the tire.

8 illustrates a top-down schematic diagram 800 of an example split ring resonator (split ring resonator) configuration including two concentric split ring resonators, according to one embodiment. Optionally, the top-down diagram 800 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, the top-down diagram 800 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, Figure 8 is a top view of two layers, each layer carrying a split ring resonator (split ring resonator), for example, forming an example split ring resonator (split ring resonator) including two concentric split ring resonators. ring resonator) configuration. As used herein, a split ring resonator (split ring resonator) consists of a pair of concentric rings disposed on a dielectric substrate, with each ring having slits (eg, due to a printed pattern). When a split-ring resonator array is excited with the aid of a time-varying magnetic field, the structure behaves as an effective medium with negative effective permeability in a narrow band around the resonance point of the split-ring resonator. Many geometries are possible, for example, such that the dimensions and/or spacing between individual split ring resonators, including dimensions "a", "r" and/or "c", are selected to achieve a specific corresponding spectral response. For example, "a" can be about 1 mm, "r" can be about 2 mm, and "c" can be about 0.6 mm. These dimensions may correspond to producing a desired and/or expected spectral response, e.g., resulting in a relatively broad and/or broad signal response rather than a narrow and/or notched response, thereby facilitating improved spectral analysis, resulting in use Improve cost efficiency in spectrum analysis tools such as spectrum analyzers. Additionally or alternatively, any dimensions may be further tailored to achieve a particular desired end result target, for example, application in a racing circuit as compared to off-road applications, etc. In one embodiment, the specific geometry may involve gaps between concentric rings. Such gaps create capacitance which, combined with the inductance inherent in the pair of concentric rings, causes changes in the overall resonance.

Printable, sheet-guided, cylindrical split-ring resonator designs can be constructed from any conductive material, including metals, conductive nonmetals, dielectric materials, semiconductor materials, and more. In addition to being tuned based on the selection and/or processing of the conductive material, the split ring resonator can also be tuned by changing the geometry so that the effective permittivity is adjusted accordingly. The effective permittivity as a function of split ring resonator geometry is given in Equation 5. (Equation 5) where a is the spacing between cylinders, ꙍ is the angular frequency, μ0 is the magnetic permeability of free space, r is the radius, d is the spacing between concentric conductive sheets, l is the stacking length, c is the ring thickness, and σ It is the resistance per unit length of the sheet measured around the circumference.

In some cases, the value of a (eg, the spacing of the cylinders of a cylindrical split-ring resonator) can be made relatively small such that the concentric rings absorb EM radiation in a relatively narrow frequency range. In other cases, the value of a can be made relatively large so that the concentric rings each absorb EM radiation over a widely spaced range of frequencies. In some cases, split ring resonators of different sizes may be positioned on different surfaces of the tire. In some cases, split ring resonators of different sizes disposed on different surfaces of the tire can be used to measure tire conditions (eg, temperature, age, wear, etc.).

In some embodiments, the material forming the split ring resonator is a composite material. Each split ring resonator can be configured to make any specific desired tuned response to EM stimulation. At least because split-ring resonators are designed to simulate the resonant response of atoms (but on a larger scale, and at lower frequencies), larger-scale split-ring resonators allow more manipulation of the resonant response than atoms. control. Additionally, split-ring resonators are more responsive than ferromagnetic materials found in nature. The significant magnetic response of split-ring resonators is a significant advantage over heavier natural materials.

9 illustrates a schematic diagram 900 illustrating a complete tire diagnostic system and apparatus for tire wear sensing via impedance-based spectroscopy, according to one embodiment. Optionally, schematic diagram 900 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, diagram 900 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, a schematic diagram 900 of a tire, such as a pneumatic rubber tire filled with air or nitrogen ( _N2 ), may include conventional tire components including a body 920 , an inner liner 912 , a bead fill area 922 , a bead 916 , a or multiple belt layers 904 , 906 , 908 , and 910 , tread 902 , and impedance-based spectroscopy wear sensing printed electronics 918 (alternatively, sensors including carbon-based microstructures in which signals are frequency shifted and attenuated Monitored by a resonator embedded in any one or more of the belt layers 904 - 910 ).

As shown here, wireless strain sensors can be placed on the surface or sides of the liner (or embedded therein) to monitor tire condition for vehicle safety (such as detecting damaged tires). Monitoring of tire deformation or strain can (indirectly) provide information representative of the degree of friction between the tire and the road surface, which can then be used to optimize the vehicle's tire control system. Tire information can be transmitted wirelessly to a receiver located in the wheel well (and/or anywhere near the split ring resonator) based on the resonance sensor platform. It will be appreciated that the receiver may potentially be located anywhere that is not opaque to radio frequency (wireless) signaling.

Figure 10 illustrates a schematic diagram 1000 related to tire information transmitted via telemetry into a navigation system and equipment for manufacturing printed carbon-based materials, according to one embodiment. Optionally, schematic diagram 1000 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, diagram 1000 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, schematic diagram 1000 illustrates a system for providing tire wear-related information via telemetry to a navigation system and equipment for manufacturing printed carbon-based materials. Schematic diagram 1000 may function with any one or more of the presently disclosed systems, methods, and materials, such as sensors including carbon-based microstructures, and therefore redundant description thereof is omitted. Impedance spectroscopy, also known as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), refers to an impedance conversion method involving the application of sinusoidal electrochemical perturbations (potentials or currents) over a wide frequency range when measuring a sample, such as a sensor , including carbon-based microstructures incorporated within one or more tire belt layers of tire 1002 . Printed carbon-based resonators 1004 may be incorporated within one or more tire components, such as tire belts, where each printed carbon-based resonator 1004 has the generally oval configuration shown or is customized to achieve a specific desired Some other shape or configuration of resonant properties suitable for monitoring frequency shifts and/or attenuation, such as indicative of wear of the tire body ply and/or tread layer having a natural resonant frequency of approximately 1.0 GHz first response attenuation) for effective and accurate vehicle component wear detection.

A roller assembly 1010 capable of forming printed carbon-based resonators 1004 includes a reservoir 1012 (such as a vat) of carbon-based microstructures and / or microstructured materials (such as graphene), an anilox ink roller 1014 (referred to as a rigid cylinder, Typically constructed from a steel or aluminum core coated with an industrial ceramic containing millions of tiny dimples (called cells) on the surface), the printing plate cylinder 1016 and the impression cylinder 1018 . In operation, graphene extracted from storage 1012 may be rolled, pressed, stretched, or otherwise fabricated into printed carbon-based resonators 1004 by rollers in roller assembly 1010 . Registration of the printed carbon-based resonator 1004 may not be required for the schematic 1000 to function.

Therefore, any combination of the aforementioned features can be used to create tires with resonators (meaning actual or "equivalent" resonant grooves), LCs and/or resonant circuits, where the carbonaceous microstructures themselves can respond to signals from the transceiver and/or The emitted RF signal from the energy provided by the advanced energy source resonates to cause other sensors disposed in or on any one or more components of the tire (such as the tread, one or more plies, inner liner, etc.) May exhibit frequency shifting or signal attenuation properties or behavior. The resonators described do not necessarily need to embody actual circuits and/or integrated circuits (ICs). The described resonators can be simply implemented as tuned carbonaceous microstructures, thus avoiding common degradation issues that can occur when implementing traditional discrete circuits in decomposable materials, such as tire tread layers. Such resonators may resonate in response to externally provided "acoustic pulses" such as those provided by transceivers located in the wheel wells of the vehicle, or the resonators may resonate in response to being modified by any deformation or any Co-location facilitated by a number of electrical or charge generators (such as thermoelectric generators, piezoelectric energy generators, triboelectric energy generators, etc.) (meaning within the same tire tread layer, but may be within the same tire tread layer) (different locations), self-powered, and self-detection capable of charging to respond.

Any such resonator (and other resonators and/or resonant circuits) may be configured to emit and/or further emit an oscillating RF signal (or other form of electromagnetic radiation) at any time while the tire is rolling or otherwise experiencing deformation. , depending on the overall configuration). When vehicle tires experience wear due to use (such as on-road or off-road driving), the tire tread layer in contact with the pavement or ground (earth) may experience deformation (such as being "squeezed" by itself) instantaneously or over time. Deformation observed during rotation or rolling, and/or deformation observed during lateral movement experienced during rotation, etc.) , the resulting signal frequency shift and/or attenuation behavior may change in accordance with such "squeezing" since the associated signal may oscillate within one or more known amplitude ranges. Additionally or alternatively, as the tire deforms, the observed signal may oscillate in a known frequency range corresponding to a specific resonator, allowing precise and accurate identification of the type of degradation occurring as it occurs, while The driver, passengers and/or other vehicle occupants are not required to leave the vehicle and observe the tire tread condition while the vehicle is secured. Such frequency-shifted oscillations can be observed as frequency shifts back and forth between two or more frequencies within a known frequency range.

Strain sensors with wireless capabilities located on the side of the liner, such as geometric measurements representing relative displacements between particles in the body of material that may be caused by external constraints or loads, can be monitored for automotive safety Tire condition (such as by detecting damaged tires). In addition, tire deformation or strain monitoring can indirectly provide information about the degree of friction between the tire and the road surface, which can then be used to optimize the vehicle's tire control system. Such tire information can be transmitted wirelessly to a receiver (and/or transceiver) located in the wheel hub based on a resonant sensor (such as impedance spectroscopy, IS, transducer) platform.

11 illustrates a schematic diagram 1100 related to tire information transmitted via telemetry into a navigation system and equipment for manufacturing printed carbon-based materials, according to one embodiment. Optionally, schematic diagram 1100 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, diagram 1100 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

In one embodiment, diagram 1100 may relate to a resonant serial number based digital encoding system for determining vehicle tire wear via ply printed encoding. Digital encoding systems based on resonant serial numbers may be combined and/or functioned with the presently disclosed systems, methods, and sensors. A digital encoding system based on resonant serial numbers provides digital encoding of the tire via the ply printed encoding, and therefore provides cradle-to-grave tracking of the tire (and associated performance indicators) and usage profile without the need for There are traditional electronic devices in tires that are subject to daily wear and tear.

In some embodiments, digital encoding of a tire's resonant serial number via tire tread layer printing may facilitate cradle-to-grave tire tracking of the tire and use without necessarily requiring the presence of electronics within the tire. For example, along with tire wear sensing via impedance spectroscopy, additional resonators can be digitally encoded onto one or more printed patterns, such as a serial number for telemetry tracking. Thus, a vehicle so equipped can track tread wear, miles driven (eg, total), and tire age without the need for radio frequency identification (RFID) technology.

Along with tire wear sensing via impedance spectroscopy (IS) and/or electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), additional resonators can be digitally encoded onto the printed pattern to provide for telemetry-based tire performance tracking. Identifiable serial number. Tires incorporating the printed carbon-based resonators in question may be inherently serialized by incrementally printing onto the body ply and/or tread layer.

12 illustrates a schematic diagram 1200 for digital encoding of a vehicle tire based on a resonance serial number via a tire tread layer and/or body ply printed encoding, according to one embodiment. Optionally, schematic diagram 1200 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, diagram 1200 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

The serial number "6E" is encoded as shown in the figure in a specially prepared array of printed carbon resonators configured to resonate according to the "acoustic pulse wave" stimulus-response diagram 1212 , by This allows easy and reliable identification of that particular body ply and/or tread layer of a vehicle tire so equipped.

Figure 13 illustrates a resonance mechanism 1300 that contributes to the overall phenomenon produced by the different resonator types present on the proximal side, according to one embodiment. Optionally, the resonance mechanism 1300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, the resonance mechanism 1300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

In one embodiment, resonance mechanism 1300 may be used to illustrate the use of split-ring resonators (split-ring resonators) as resonant devices that contribute to the overall phenomenon produced by the different resonator types present on the proximal side. This figure shows the inner surface 1301 of a tire with two split ring resonators (e.g., split ring resonator 1303A and split ring resonator 1303B ), each of the split ring resonators forming an electrical circuit. Configuration 1305 , the circuit configuration may be adjusted to attenuate signals at specific frequencies and/or attenuate within specific frequency ranges. In this embodiment, circuit configuration 1305 is shown as a geometric pattern corresponding to a generally circular split ring resonator; however, alternative circuit configurations may have different geometric patterns (e.g., cylindrical, elliptical , rectangle, ellipse, square, etc.), therefore, any conceivable geometric configuration is possible. Variants of the geometric configuration may be selected based on their effect on the resonant capabilities of the geometric pattern. Specifically, and as shown, the geometric pattern may include self-assembling carbon-based particles having various aggregation modes (e.g., aggregation mode 1306 , aggregation mode 1308 , and aggregation mode 1310 ), any one or more of the aggregation modes These may form dense areas 1304 that may affect the resonant performance of materials incorporating carbon-based microstructures. An aggregation mode and/or a series of aggregation modes may also affect the resonant performance of materials incorporating carbon-based microstructures.

In various configurations, the carbon-based microstructures can be formed at least in part from graphene. In this context, graphene can refer to an allotrope of carbon that takes the form of a single layer of atoms in a two-dimensional hexagonal lattice, with one atom forming each vertex. Co-locating and/or juxtaposing multiple such hexagonal lattices into more complex structures introduces additional resonant effects. For example, a juxtaposition 1302 of two flakes or platelets of graphene may resonate at a frequency therebetween that depends on the length, width, spacing, thickness, spacing shape, and/or other physical properties of the flakes or platelets and /or their juxtaposition relative to each other.

Table 1 shows one possible chord resulting from the overall effect of the decay. As shown in the table, each of these structures has a different resonant frequency domain corresponding to its scale signature. Table 1: Example of overall effect structure scale mark resonance frequency domain Printed patterns (e.g. split ring resonator geometry) macro scale Lower GHz Aggregation mode Mesoscale Higher GHz juxtaposition of graphene sheets or flakes microscale Very high GHz molecular Nanoscale THz

Any number of different split ring resonators can be printed onto the tire surface. Additionally, any number of split ring resonators of varying sizes can be printed onto any surface of the tire. The selection of materials and/or size and/or other structural or dimensional characteristics of a particular split ring resonator can be used to control the resonant frequency of that particular resonator split ring. A series of split ring resonators of different sizes can be printed so that the patterns correspond to digitally encoded values. Stimulating a series of split ring resonators of different sizes via electromagnetic signal communication, for example, sweeping through the 8GHz to 9GHz range or similar, and measuring the attenuated response in the return range, may result in an identifiable encoded serial number . Many different encoding schemes are possible, so the non-limiting example of Table 2 is for illustration only. Table 2 : Sample encoding scheme Dimensions (outer diameter) 1mm 2mm 2.5mm 3mm 4mm 5mm 6mm 7mm bit assignment 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Calibrated attenuation point (GHz) 8.890 8.690 8.655 8.570 8.470 8.380 8.350 8.275 Encoded 6E split ring resonator mode exist exist exist exist exist Encoded 6E bit pattern 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 Encoded 4E split-ring resonator modes exist exist exist exist Encoded 4E bit pattern 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 Encoded E1 split-ring resonator modes exist exist exist exist Encoded E1 bit pattern 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1

Figure 14 is an example temperature sensor 1400 including one or more currently disclosed split ring resonators according to one embodiment. Optionally, example temperature sensor 1400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, the example temperature sensor 1400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

In one implementation, example temperature sensor 1400 may include a portion 1402 of a tire body having multiple tire plies (eg, as shown in FIG . 9 ). The example temperature sensor 1400 may detect, for example, the temperature 1408 of a tire ply in which the example temperature sensor 1400 is incorporated. In one embodiment, a tire sensor may include a ceramic material 1404 (eg, tissue as a matrix) and one or more split ring resonators 1406 , such as shown in FIG. 8 and elsewhere in this disclosure). Each of the one or more split ring resonators 1406 may have a natural resonant frequency (eg, as shown in FIG. 16 ) that may respond to one of changes in elastomeric properties or temperature changes in the respective tire. Or more and offset. Conductive layer 1410 may be dielectrically separated from respective split ring resonators of one or more split ring resonators 1406 . In some embodiments, the example temperature sensor 1400 may be produced and shipped without being incorporated into a tire so that it may be later incorporated into the tire and/or tire ply.

Additionally, or in alternative embodiments, the example temperature sensor 1400 may be incorporated into a system (not shown in FIG. 14 ) configured to detect tire strain in a vehicle (eg, as shown in FIG. 16 ). )middle. The system may include an antenna disposed on one or more of the vehicle or vehicle components (eg, as discussed in this disclosure with respect to the emission and/or propagation of electromagnetic signals). The antenna can be configured to output electromagnetic acoustic pulse waves. The system may also include a tire having a body formed from one or more tire plies (eg, as shown in Figure 9 ). Any one or more tire plies may include a split ring resonator (split ring resonator), for example, as discussed in this disclosure. In one embodiment, each split ring resonator may have a natural resonant frequency configured to respond to elastomeric properties (e.g., reversible deformation, stress, and /or strain) is offset proportionally (e.g., as shown in Figure 16 ).

In some embodiments, the described systems may be used to detect changes in physical properties of materials outside of configurations associated with tires and/or vehicles (eg, cars and trucks). For example, the system may detect changes in surface temperature of aircraft wings and/or other types of wings (eg, associated with spacecraft, etc.). Additionally, the system may permit, for example, one or more split ring resonators 1406 to be removably attached to a patient in a hospital environment such that conventional thermal sensors may not be used (e.g., relying on radiant heat transfer techniques, etc.) Obtain temperature readings for individual patients. In any of these and other examples, such systems can detect physical properties associated with the surface.

In one embodiment, the system may include a single antenna configured to output electromagnetic acoustic pulse waves and one or more flexible substrates. Each flexible substrate may include a first side including a plurality of split ring resonators (split ring resonators) disposed on the flexible substrate (eg, such as one or more split ring resonators 1406 ). Each split ring resonator may have a natural resonant frequency that may shift proportionally in response to changes in the elastomeric properties of the respective tire ply or plies (eg, as shown in Figure 16 ) . Elastomeric properties may include one or more of reversible deformation, stress, strain, or temperature. In this manner, the system can generate an absorption curve (eg, a unique variation in the absorption of electromagnetic acoustic pulse waves output by an antenna). The system may include a second side positioned opposite the first side. The second side can be attached to the surface. A single antenna can analyze data associated with the absorption curve and output a profile of the physical properties.

Figure 15 is a graph 1500 of measured resonance characteristic signal strength (in decibels dB) versus height of tire tread layer loss (in mm), according to one embodiment. Optionally, graph 1500 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, graph 1500 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown here, carbonaceous microstructures and/or microstructured materials may be incorporated into the sensor at a given concentration level or at a plurality of different concentration levels (in each of one or more tire tread layers) or Incorporated in some configurations throughout one or more layers of the tire tread to achieve the unique degradation profile shown. That is, as described herein, measured resonance characteristics (referring to the identifying "signature" of the specific tire tread layer) can be "detected" by one or more RF signals to exhibit attenuation of the transmitted signal as shown .

New tire tread layers can be configured to indicate a signal strength of approximately 0 (measured in decibels dB). The strength may vary in proportion to the degree of deterioration of the tire tread layer. For example, a 2 mm height loss in the tire tread layer (assumed to be the tire tread layer in contact with the pavement) can correspond to the measured resonance characteristic signal intensity curve shown. The "sonic pulse wave" signal at 6.7 GHz can be measured at an intensity level of about 9 dB, and so on.

Thus, carbonaceous microstructures with unique concentration levels, chemistries, dispersions, distributions, and/or the like can be embedded in (or in some cases, placed on one or more surfaces of) a tire tread layer above) to achieve the unique and easily identifiable measured resonance signature signal intensity shown. Therefore, users of such systems can instantly know the exact extent and location of tire tread wear as it occurs while driving, rather than being restricted to observing the tires while the vehicle is stationary, a process that can be both time-consuming and time-consuming. Sometimes it's cumbersome.

Figure 16 is a graph 1600 of measured resonance characteristic signal strength (in decibels dB) versus the natural resonance frequency of a split ring resonator, illustrating resonance response shifts proportional to tire ply deformation, according to one embodiment . Optionally, graph 1600 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, graph 1600 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

In one embodiment, graph 1600 illustrates measured resonance characteristic signal strength (in decibels dB) versus a split ring resonator (split ring resonator) incorporated in the tire tread and/or tread ply, according to one embodiment. the natural resonant frequency of a ring resonator (e.g., as discussed in this disclosure). As shown herein, carbonaceous and/or carbonaceous microstructures and/or microstructured materials may be incorporated into a given concentration level or a plurality of different concentration levels (in each of one or more tire tread layers) Sensors are incorporated in or in some configurations throughout the layers of one or more tire treads to achieve the unique degradation curve shown. That is, as described herein, the measured resonance signature (referring to the identifying "signature" of the particular tire tread layer) can be "bumped" by one or more RF signals to exhibit the bias of the emitted signal as shown. Drift, for example, represents and/or is proportional to the degree of reversible tire deformation (eg, stress and/or strain) that may be encountered in a drift situation. In this way, the split ring resonator "response" signal behavior can be modeled in terms of tire deformation (eg, strain) (associated with drift), thereby allowing a complete characterization of tire condition and performance. Real-life scenarios that result in loss of lateral tire stiction may include drifting and/or aquaplaning, a phenomenon that occurs when a layer of water forms between the vehicle wheels and the road surface, causing a loss of traction and thereby preventing the vehicle from responding to control inputs. respond. If all contacting wheels hydroplan simultaneously, the vehicle effectively becomes an uncontrolled sled. The presently disclosed split ring resonators and/or resonators used in conjunction with antennas and/or signal processing devices can effectively eliminate the need for conventional aquaplaning detection techniques (e.g., through the use of vibration detection coupled to the tire surface). unit, tires may deteriorate and be damaged due to long-term use). Additionally, Figure 16 shows the spectral response (in signal decibels) associated with the lateral tire movement encountered during stiction losses while drifting. In real-life scenarios, temporary stiction losses such as may be heard via a high-pitched "squeal" rather than other sounds heard only during rapid forward rotation. Such periodic stiction losses (before the drifting vehicle regains stiction and/or traction) may manifest (not shown in Figure 16 ) as periodic and/or periodic shifts corresponding to the natural resonant frequency of the split ring resonator. Additionally, with respect to Figure 16 , a "squeal" type situation can be visually depicted by small regular and/or periodic frequency shifts in the various valleys and/or peaks of the curve.

As can be seen, real-time multi-mode resonators support methods for measuring static friction using sensors containing resonant materials for elastomer property change detection. In one arrangement, one or more sensors containing resonant material for detecting changes in elastomer properties are positioned in proximity to the sensor. A stimulation signal may be emitted to excite one or more sensors containing resonant materials for detection of changes in elastomer properties. These emissions include electromagnetic energy across a known frequency range. Calibration signals are captured under known stiction conditions. After receiving a return signal that includes, at least in part, frequencies in response to the stimulus signal, various signal processing techniques are applied to the return signal. For example, various signal processing techniques are applied to the return signal to compare with the stimulus signal. Whenever the frequency and/or amplitude of the return signal differs from the calibration signal, the corresponding interface indirect permittivity is calculated (for example, at the interface between the tire and the driving surface). The absolute and/or relative values of the interface indirect permittivity are related to the stiction value (e.g., using a calibration table). The change in static friction values over time is in turn related to road and/or tire conditions.

The static and/or dynamic values constituting the aforementioned calibration signal and/or calibration table may be based at least in part on an analysis of the stimulus signal and/or an analysis of the environment in the vicinity of the sensor. In addition, the aforementioned calibration signal and/or calibration table may include a permittivity calibration signal, a magnetic permeability calibration signal, a temperature calibration signal, a vibration calibration signal, a doping calibration signal, etc. In one embodiment, the calibration procedure may be performed under known and/or controlled environmental conditions (eg, dry pavement and clear weather) to generate baseline data at various forward angular velocities (such that the test vehicle only Move directly forward without lateral slipping and/or sliding motion). The baseline data is then used as one or more calibration curves to which the deformation values can then be compared and/or calculated based on the calibration curves. In this manner, clear performance changes relative to the initial unstretched (baseline) calibration curve can be observed, for example, as shown in Figure 16 .

Whenever and wherever the return signal differs from the calibration signal, further analysis of the return signal relative to the stimulus signal can be used to identify which frequencies of the return signal differ from the calibration signal. These differences can be observed/measured as attenuation relative to one or more frequencies of the calibration signal. Additionally or alternatively, these differences may be observed/measured as a frequency shift of the peak relative to the peak of the calibration signal (as shown in Figure 16 , relative to data correspondingly stretched at 0.5%, etc.).

Figure 17 is a graph 1700 of signal strength versus chirped signal frequency for split ring resonators that can resonate in response to an encoded serial number, according to one embodiment. Optionally, graph 1700 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, graph 1700 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

In one embodiment, graph 1700 illustrates the use of split ring resonance structures configured to resonate in a manner corresponding to an encoded serial number. Such patterns of split-ring resonance structures can be printed on tires or other elastomers. As shown in the figure, the encoded serial number "E1" is shown by the presence of four different sizes of split ring resonators. Graph 1700 shows an EM stimulus in the range of about 8 GHz to about 9 GHz, and the response is shown as attenuation in the range of about –8 dB to about –18 dB. Stimulating the series of differently sized split ring resonators via electromagnetic signal communication across the range and measuring the S-parameters of the return signals across the range results in convenient and reliable identification of the specific printed pattern. Therefore, if a unique pattern is printed on each of a series of tires and if the pattern is associated with an encoded serial number, the specific tire can be determined based on the pattern's response to an EM query.

More specifically, if a unique pattern is printed on each of a series of tires, and if that pattern is associated with an encoded serial number, then an EM interrogation of an EM stimulus in a range corresponding to the encoding scheme may be responded to based on The measured S-parameters (e.g., the ratio of S-parameters corresponding to attenuation) are used to determine the specific tire. In the example of Figure 17 , the attenuation falls in the range of about -8dB to about -18dB, however, in other measurements, the attenuation falls in the range of about -1dB to about -9dB. In other measurements, attenuation fell in the range of about -10dB to about -19dB. In other measurements, attenuation fell in the range of about -20dB to about -35dB. In empirical experiments, the attenuation is substantially independent of the number of differently configured resonators co-located proximately on the tire surface. More specifically, in some experiments the attenuation may be particularly significant when the resonators are co-located proximately on the tire surface, possibly on the tread side of the steel belt (eg, in a steel belt radial tire).

The aforementioned encoding and printing technology can be used in tires and other components containing elastomers. In some cases, printing the resonator is performed at relatively high temperatures and/or using chemicals (eg, catalysts) such that chemical bonds are formed between the resonator and the carbon atoms of the elastomer. The chemical bonds formed between the resonator and the elastomer's carbon atoms contribute to the overall effect, so a calibration curve can be used to take into account the type and extent of these chemical bonds.

Elastomers may contain any one or more types of rubber. For example, isoprene is a common rubber formulation. Isoprene has its own single C-C bonds as well as double bonds between other molecular elements in the ligand. The additional double carbon bonds formed by high-temperature printing of split-ring resonators have the effect of increasing conductivity, which can be used to form larger, lower-frequency resonators. Additionally or alternatively, the aggregates can be tuned to a specific size, which will produce overtones that contribute to the overall effect, which in turn results in very high sensitivity for a given EM interrogation within the tuning range. In some cases, the material's response to EM interrogation is sufficiently discernible that the age or other health of the elastomer can be determined (eg, by comparison to one or more calibration curves).

More specifically, as elastomers age, the molecular spacing changes and the coupling and/or penetration of energy decreases accordingly, causing the response frequency to shift as conductive sites become more isolated relative to adjacent sites. shift. In some cases, the attenuation and/or return signal strength will change at specific frequencies. Such changes can be determined over time and used to construct a calibration curve.

The tire design supports many possible positions for printing split ring resonators. For example, a split ring resonator may be located on any interior surface of the tire, including but not limited to the cap layer, and/or on or near the steel belt (e.g., on the tread side of the steel belt), and/or on the radial belt. On or near the ply, and/or on the sidewall, and/or on the bead protector, and/or on the bead, etc.

The use of split-ring resonator technology is not limited to tires. These technologies can be applied to any component containing elastomers, such as belts and hoses. Additionally, the use of split-ring resonator technology is not limited to vehicles. That is, since consumables are present in organic power systems and/or drive system components in a wide range of mobile devices (eg, in industrial machinery systems), the split ring resonator technology may also be applied to such consumables. Some forms of wear phenomena are the result of friction, heat, thermal cycling, and corrosion, any of which can cause and/or accelerate changes in the molecular structure of a material. Changes in the material's molecular structure can be detected under EM interrogation. More specifically, by calculating the frequency shift, the response of a particular sample (eg, the response of an aged sample) in a particular EM interrogation mode relative to a calibration curve, the age or health of the material can be evaluated based on the magnitude of the frequency shift.

18A - 18Y illustrate carbonaceous materials used as forming materials for producing any of the currently disclosed resonators (eg, split ring resonators), according to one embodiment. Optionally, Figures 18A - 18Y may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, Figures 18A - 18Y may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, Figures 18A - 18Y illustrate carbon-based materials, growths, agglomerates, aggregates, sheets, particles, and/or the like, such as in a reaction chamber or reactor from, for example, methane (CH ₄ ) Materials that self-nucleate carbon-containing gaseous substances during flight, such as the U.S. patent application titled "3D Self-Assembled Multi-Modal Carbon-Based Particle" filed by Stowell et al. on February 7, 2020 No. 16/785,020, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

The carbon-based nanoparticles and aggregates shown may be characterized by a high degree of "uniformity" (such as a high mass fraction of a desired carbon allotrope), a high degree of "ordering" (such as a low concentration of defects), and/or High "purity" (such as low concentrations of elemental impurities), as opposed to less uniform, less ordered, and less pure particles achievable by conventional systems and methods.

Nanoparticles produced using the methods described herein can contain multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) or linked MWSF with high uniformity (such as a ratio of graphene to MWSF of 20% to 80%), high Degree of order (such as a Raman signature with an I _D / _IG ratio of 0.95 to 1.05) and high purity (such as a ratio of carbon to other elements (except hydrogen) greater than 99.9%). Nanoparticles produced using the methods described herein contain MWSF or linked MWSF, and the MWSF does not contain a core composed of impurity elements other than carbon. Particles produced using the methods described herein may be aggregates containing the above-described nanoparticles with large diameters, such as greater than 10 μm.

Conventional methods have been used to produce particles containing highly ordered multi-walled spherical fullerenes, but may result in a final product with various disadvantages. For example, high temperature synthesis techniques result in particles that have a mixture of many carbon allotropes and therefore have low homogeneity (such as less than 20% fullerenes relative to other carbon allotropes) and/or small particle sizes (such as less than 1µm, or in some cases less than 100 nm). Methods using catalysts may result in products that contain the catalyst element and therefore are of relatively low purity (meaning less than 95% carbon to other elements). These undesirable properties also often result in undesirable electrical properties of the resulting carbon particles (such as an electrical conductivity of less than 1,000 S/m).

The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein can be characterized by Raman spectroscopy, which indicates high order and uniformity of the structure. As described below, the uniformly ordered and/or pure carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein can be produced using relatively high speed, low cost modified thermal reactors and methods.

The term "graphene", as commonly understood and as referred to herein, means an allotrope of carbon in the form of a two-dimensional, atomic-scale, hexagonal lattice in which one atom forms each vertex. The carbon atoms in graphene are sp ² bonded. In addition, the Raman spectrum of graphene has two main peaks: the G mode at about 1580 cm ^-1 and the D mode at about 1350 cm ^-1 (when using a 532 nm excitation laser).

The term "fullerene", as commonly understood and referred to herein, means carbon molecules in the form of hollow spheres, ellipsoids, tubes or other shapes. Spherical fullerenes are also known as buckminster fullerenes or buckyballs. Cylindrical fullerenes can also be called carbon nanotubes. Fullerene is structurally similar to graphite, which consists of stacked graphene sheets connected to hexagonal rings. Fullerenes can also contain pentagonal (or sometimes heptagonal) rings.

The term "multi-walled fullerene", as commonly understood and referred to herein, means a fullerene having multiple concentric layers. For example, multi-walled nanotubes (MWNTs) contain multiple rolled layers of graphene (concentric tubes). Multiwalled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) contain multiple concentric fullerene spheres.

The term "nanoparticles", as commonly understood and referred to herein, means particles ranging from 1 nm to 989 nm. Nanoparticles may include one or more structural properties (such as crystal structure, defect concentration, etc.) and one or more types of atoms. Nanoparticles can be of any shape, including but not limited to spherical shape, ellipsoid shape, dumbbell shape, cylindrical shape, elongated cylindrical type shape, rectangular and/or prism shape, disk shape, line shape, irregular shape, dense Shape (such as very few voids), porous shape (such as many voids), etc.

The term "aggregate", as commonly understood and referred to herein, means linked together by van der Waals forces, by covalent bonds, by ionic bonds, by metallic bonds, or by other physical or chemical interactions A plurality of nanoparticles. Aggregates can vary greatly in size but are typically larger than about 500 nm.

Carbon nanoparticles may include two (2) or more connected multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) and a graphene layer coating the connected MWSF, and may be formed independently from other than carbon A nucleus composed of impurity elements. As described herein, carbon nanoparticles may include two (2) or more connected multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) and a graphene layer coating the connected MWSFs. In such configurations, the MWSF contains no voids (meaning no space for carbon atoms greater than about 0.5 nm or greater than about 1 nm) in the center. Connected MWSFs can be formed from concentric, extremely ordered spheres of ^sp hybridized carbon atoms (favorably contrasting with the conventional spheres of chaotically ordered, inhomogeneous, amorphous carbon particles, which otherwise might not achieve any one or more of the results of this paper unexpected and beneficial properties revealed).

The average diameter of the nanoparticles containing the connected MWSF is 5 nm to 500 nm, or 5 nm to 250 nm, or 5 nm to 100 nm, or 5 nm to 50 nm, or 10 nm to 500 nm, or 10 nm to 500 nm. 250 nm, or 10 nm to 100 nm, or 10 nm to 50 nm, or 40 nm to 500 nm, or 40 nm to 250 nm, or 40 nm to 100 nm, or 50 nm to 500 nm, or 50 nm to 250 nm, or 50 nm to 100 nm.

The carbon nanoparticles described herein form aggregates in which many nanoparticles come together to form larger units. The carbon aggregate can be a plurality of carbon nanoparticles. The diameter of the carbon aggregates may be 10 µm to 500 µm, or 50 µm to 500 µm, or 100 µm to 500 µm, or 250 µm to 500 µm, or 10 µm to 250 µm, or 10 µm to 100 µm, or 10 µm to 50 µm. As defined above, aggregates may be formed from a plurality of carbon nanoparticles. The aggregates may contain linked MWSF, such as Raman features with high homogeneity indicators (such as a ratio of graphene to MWSF of 20% to 80%), high degree of order (such as an I _D / _IG ratio of 0.95 to 1.05 ) and high purity (such as greater than 99.9% carbon).

Aggregates of carbon nanoparticles mainly refer to aggregates with diameters within the above range, especially particles larger than 10 µm, which are usually easier to collect than particles or particle aggregates smaller than 500 nm. Easy collection reduces the cost of manufacturing equipment used in carbon nanoparticle production and increases the yield of carbon nanoparticles. Particles larger than 10 µm pose fewer safety concerns than the risks of handling smaller nanoparticles, such as potential health and safety risks due to inhalation of smaller nanoparticles. Lower health and safety risks further reduce manufacturing costs.

With reference to the carbon nanoparticles disclosed herein, the ratio of graphene to MWSF of the carbon nanoparticles is 10% to 90%, or 10% to 80%, or 10% to 60%, or 10% to 40%, or 10 % to 20%, or 20% to 40%, or 20% to 90%, or 40% to 90%, or 60% to 90%, or 80% to 90%. The ratio of graphene to MWSF of the carbon aggregate is 10% to 90%, or 10% to 80%, or 10% to 60%, or 10% to 40%, or 10% to 20%, or 20% to 40 %, or 20% to 90%, or 40% to 90%, or 60% to 90%, or 80% to 90%. The ratio of graphene to connected MWSF of carbon nanoparticles is 10% to 90%, or 10% to 80%, or 10% to 60%, or 10% to 40%, or 10% to 20%, or 20 % to 40%, or 20% to 90%, or 40% to 90%, or 60% to 90%, or 80% to 90%. The ratio of graphene to connected MWSF of carbon nanoparticles is 10% to 90%, or 10% to 80%, or 10% to 60%, or 10% to 40%, or 10% to 20%, or 20 % to 40%, or 20% to 90%, or 40% to 90%, or 60% to 90%, or 80% to 90%.

Raman spectroscopy can be used to characterize carbon allotropes to distinguish their molecular structures. For example, graphene can be characterized using Raman spectroscopy to determine information such as order/disorder, edges and grain boundaries, thickness, number of layers, doping, strain, and thermal conductivity. MWSF is also characterized using Raman spectroscopy to determine the degree of order of MWSF.

Raman spectroscopy is used to characterize the structure of MWSFs or connected MWSFs used with reference to incorporation within various tire-related plies of tires as discussed herein. The main peaks in the Raman spectrum are G mode and D mode. The G mode is attributed to the vibration of carbon atoms in the sp ^hybridized carbon network, while the D mode is related to the breathing of hexagonal carbon rings with defects. In some cases, defects may be present but may not be detectable in Raman spectroscopy. For example, if the crystal structure presented is orthogonal to the basal plane, the D peak will show an increase. Alternatively, if one were to present a perfectly planar surface parallel to the base plane, the D peak would be zero.

When using 532 nm incident light, the Raman G mode is typically 1582 cm ^–1 for planar graphite, however, for MWSF or connected MWSF, it may be shifted downward (such as to 1565 cm ^–1 or to 1580 cm ^{– 1} ). In the Raman spectrum of MWSF or connected MWSF, a D mode around 1350 cm ^–1 is observed. The ratio of the intensity of the D-mode peak to the G-mode peak (such as _ID / _IG ) is related to the degree of order of the MWSF, with a lower _ID / _IG indicating a higher degree of order. I _D /I _G close to or below 1 indicates a relatively high degree of order, and I _D /I _G greater than 1.1 indicates a lower degree of order.

As described herein, when using 532 nm incident light, carbon nanoparticles or carbon aggregates containing MWSF or linked MWSF can have and/or exhibit a first Raman peak at about 1350 cm ^-1 and at Raman spectrum with a second Raman peak at approximately 1580 cm ^-1 . The ratio of the intensity of the first Raman peak to the intensity of the second Raman peak of the nanoparticles or aggregates described herein (such as I _D / _IG ) can be in the following range: 0.95 to 1.05, or 0.9 to 1.1 , or 0.8 to 1.2, or 0.9 to 1.2, or 0.8 to 1.1, or 0.5 to 1.5, or less than 1.5, or less than 1.2, or less than 1.1, or less than 1, or less than 0.95, or less than 0.9, or less than 0.8.

As defined above, carbon aggregates containing MWSF or linked MWSF have high purity. The carbon aggregates containing MWSF or linked MWSF have a carbon to metal ratio greater than 99.99%, or greater than 99.95%, or greater than 99.9%, or greater than 99.8%, or greater than 99.5%, or greater than 99%. The ratio of carbon to other elements in the carbon aggregate is greater than 99.99%, or greater than 99.95%, or greater than 99.9%, or greater than 99.5%, or greater than 99%, or greater than 90%, or greater than 80%, or greater than 70%, or greater than 60%. The ratio of carbon to other elements (except hydrogen) in the carbon aggregate is greater than 99.99%, or greater than 99.95%, or greater than 99.9%, or greater than 99.8%, or greater than 99.5%, or greater than 99%, or greater than 90%, Or greater than 80%, or greater than 70%, or greater than 60%.

As defined above, carbon aggregates containing MWSF or linked MWSF have a high specific surface area. The Bruno, Emmett and Taylor (BET) specific surface area of the carbon aggregate is 10 to 200 m ² /g, or 10 to 100 m ² /g, or 10 to 50 m ² /g, or 50 to 200 m ² / g, or 50 to 100 m ² /g, or 10 to 1000 m ² /g.

As defined above, carbon aggregates containing MWSF or linked MWSF have high electrical conductivity. As defined above, carbon aggregates containing MWSF or connected MWSF are compressed into pellets, and the pellets have an electrical conductivity greater than 500 S/m, or greater than 1,000 S/m, or greater than 2,000 S/m, or greater than 3,000 S/m, or greater than 4,000 S/m, or greater than 5,000 S/m, or greater than 10,000 S/m, or greater than 20,000 S/m, or greater than 30,000 S/m, or greater than 40,000 S/m, or greater than 50,000 S /m, or greater than 60,000 S/m, or greater than 70,000 S/m, or 500 S/m to 100,000 S/m, or 500 S/m to 1,000 S/m, or 500 S/m to 10,000 S/m, Or 500 S/m to 20,000 S/m, or 500 S/m to 100,000 S/m, or 1000 S/m to 10,000 S/m, or 1,000 S/m to 20,000 S/m, or 10,000 to 100,000 S/m m, or 10,000 S/m to 80,000 S/m, or 500 S/m to 10,000 S/m. In some cases, the density of the pellets is about 1 g/cm ³ , or about 1.2 g/cm ³ , or about 1.5 g/cm ³ , or about 2 g/cm ³ , or about 2.2 g/cm ³ , or About 2.5 g/cm ³ , or about 3 g/cm ³ . Additionally, tests have been performed in which compression of 2,000 psi and 12,000 psi and annealing temperatures of 800°C and 1,000°C were used to form compressed pellets of carbon aggregate material. Higher compression and/or higher annealing temperatures generally result in pellets with higher degrees of electrical conductivity, including in the range of 12,410.0 S/m to 13,173.3 S/m.

The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein can be produced using thermal reactors and methods. Additional details regarding the thermal reactor and/or methods of use may be found in U.S. Patent No. 9,862,602, entitled "CRACKING OF A PROCESS GAS," issued on January 9, 2018, which patent is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. way to incorporate. Additionally, carbonaceous and/or hydrocarbon precursors (at least methane, ethane, propane, butane, and natural gas) can be used with thermal reactors to produce the carbon nanoparticles and carbon aggregates described herein.

The carbon nanoparticles and aggregate systems described herein use thermal reactors at 1 slm to 10 slm, or 0.1 slm to 20 slm, or 1 slm to 5 slm, or 5 slm to 10 slm, or greater than 1 slm, or greater than 5 SLM gas flow rate to produce. The carbon nanoparticles and aggregation systems described herein use a thermal reactor to produce 0.1 seconds (s) to 30 s, or 0.1 s to 10 s, or 1 s to 10 s, or 1 s to 5 s, or 5 s to 10 s, or greater than 0.1 seconds, or greater than 1 s, or greater than 5 s, or less than 30 s gas resonance time to produce.

The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein can be produced using a thermal reactor at 10 g/hr to 200 g/hr, or 30 g/hr to 200 g/hr, or 30 g/hr to 100 g/hr, or Produced at a production rate of 30 g/hr to 60 g/hr, or 10 g/hr to 100 g/hr, or greater than 10 g/hr, or greater than 30 g/hr, or greater than 100 g/hr.

Thermal reactors (or other cracking equipment) and thermal reactor methods (or other cracking methods) can be used to refine, pyrolyze, dissociate or cleave raw process gases into their components to produce carbon nanoparticles and carbon as described herein Aggregates and other solid and/or gaseous products (such as hydrogen and/or lower hydrocarbon gases). Feed process gases generally include, for example, hydrogen (H ² ), carbon dioxide (CO ² ), C ¹ to C ¹⁰ hydrocarbons, aromatics, and/or other hydrocarbon gases such as natural gas, methane, ethane, propane, butane, isobutane , saturated/unsaturated hydrocarbon gases, ethylene, propylene, etc., and their mixtures. Carbon nanoparticles and carbon aggregates may include, for example, multi-walled spherical fullerene (MWSF), connected MWSF, carbon nanospheres, graphene, graphite, highly ordered pyrolytic graphite, single-walled nanotubes, poly wall nanotubes, other solid carbon products, and/or carbon nanoparticles and carbon aggregates described herein.

Methods for producing carbon nanoparticles and carbon aggregates described herein may include thermal cracking methods using, for example, elongated materials enclosed within an elongated casing, casing, or body of a thermal cracking apparatus, as appropriate. Longitudinal heating elements. The body may include one or more tubes or other suitable housings made, for example, of stainless steel, titanium, graphite, quartz, or the like. The main body of the thermal cracking equipment is generally cylindrical in shape, with a central elongated longitudinal axis vertically arranged and a raw material process gas inlet at or near the top of the main body. Feed process gases may flow longitudinally downward through the body or a portion thereof. In the vertical configuration, air flow and gravity assist in removing solid products from the body of the thermal cracking device.

The heating element may include any one or more of the following: a heating lamp, one or more resistive wires or filaments (or twisted pairs), metal filaments, metal strips or rods and/or may be heated enough to Other suitable thermal radical generators or components at specific temperatures for thermal cracking of raw material process gas molecules, such as molecular cracking temperatures. The heating element may be arranged, positioned or arranged to extend centrally within the body of the thermal cracking apparatus along its central longitudinal axis. In a configuration with only one heating element, it can be placed at or concentric with the central longitudinal axis; alternatively, for configurations with multiple heating elements, they can be positioned near and around the central longitudinal axis and generally symmetrically or concentrically spaced or offset at locations parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

Thermal cracking used to produce carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein can be accomplished by flowing the feed process gases through, in contact with, or near a heating element in a longitudinally elongated reaction zone. Achieved by heating to or to a specific molecular cleavage temperature, the reaction zone is generated by heat from the heating element and is defined by and contained within the body of the thermal pyrolysis apparatus.

The reaction zone may be thought of as a region surrounding the heating element and close enough to the heating element that the feed process gas receives sufficient heat to thermally decompose its molecules. The reaction zone is therefore generally axially aligned or concentric with the central longitudinal axis of the body. Thermal cracking is carried out under specific pressure. The raw process gas is circulated around or across the outer surface of the container in the reaction zone or heating chamber to cool the container or chamber and preheat the raw process gas before flowing into the reaction zone.

The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates and/or hydrogen gas described herein are produced without the use of catalysts. Therefore, the process can be completely catalyst-free.

The disclosed methods and systems can advantageously be rapidly scaled up or down as needed for different production levels, such as scalable to provide independent hydrogen and/or carbon nanoparticle production stations, hydrocarbon sources, or fuel cell stations, such as Provides higher capacity systems for refineries and/or similar.

A thermal cracking apparatus for cracking feedstock process gases to produce carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein includes a body, a feedstock process gas inlet, and an elongated heating element. The body has an internal volume with a longitudinal axis. The internal volume has a reaction zone concentric with the longitudinal axis. During thermal cracking operations, feed process gas may flow into the interior volume via the feed process gas inlet. An elongated heating element may be disposed along the longitudinal axis within the interior volume and surrounded by the reaction zone. During the thermal cracking operation, the elongated heating element is electrically heated to a molecular cracking temperature to create a reaction zone. The raw material process gas is heated by the heat from the elongated heating element, and the heat heats the molecules of the raw material process gas in the reaction zone. Split into molecular components.

A method for cracking feedstock process gases to produce carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein may include at least any one or more of the following: (1) providing a thermal cracking apparatus having an internal volume, the The internal volume has a longitudinal axis and an elongated heating element disposed along the longitudinal axis in the internal volume; (2) the elongated heating element is heated to a molecular cleavage temperature by electrical energy to generate a longitudinal elongated reaction zone in the internal volume; (3) causing the feed process gas to flow into the interior volume and through the longitudinal elongated reaction zone (such as where the feed process gas is heated by heat from the elongated heating element); and (4) while the feed process gas flows through the longitudinal elongated reaction zone , thermally cracking the molecules of the raw material process gas in the longitudinal elongated reaction zone into its components (such as hydrogen and one or more solid products).

Feedstock process gases used to produce the carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein may include hydrocarbon gases. The results of the cracking may then further include gaseous forms of hydrogen (such as ^H2 ) and various forms of carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein. Carbon nanoparticles and aggregates include two or more MWSFs and graphene layers coating the MWSFs, and/or connected MWSFs and graphene layers coating the connected MWSFs. Before flowing the feed process gas into the internal volume, the feed process gas is preheated (e.g., to 100° C.) by flowing the feed process gas through a gas preheating zone between the heating chamber and the outer shell of the thermal cracking device. to 500℃). The gas containing the nanoparticles flows into the internal volume and flows through the longitudinal elongated reaction zone to mix with the feed process gas to form a coating of solid product (such as a graphene layer) around the nanoparticles.

Carbon nanoparticles and aggregates containing multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) or linked MWSF described herein can be produced and collected without the need to complete any post-processing treatments or operations. Alternatively, some post-processing may be performed on one or more of the currently disclosed MWSFs. Some examples of post-processing involved in making and using resonant materials include mechanical treatments such as ball milling, wheel milling, sand milling, microfluidization, and other techniques for reducing particle size without damaging the MWSF. Some other examples of post-processing include exfoliation processes (referring to the complete separation of layers of carbonaceous material, such as the generation or extraction of graphene layers from graphite, etc.), including shear mixing, chemical etching, oxidation (such as the Hermes process) , thermal annealing, doping, vaporization, filtration, freeze-drying, etc. by adding elements (such as sulfur and/or nitrogen) during annealing. Some examples of post-processing include sintering processes such as spark plasma sintering (SPS), direct current sintering, microwave sintering, and ultraviolet (UV) sintering, which can be performed at high pressure and temperature in an inert gas. Various post-processing methods can be used together or sequentially. Post-processing produces functionalized carbon nanoparticles or aggregates containing multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) or linked MWSF.

Materials can be mixed together in different combinations, amounts and/or ratios. The different carbon nanoparticles and aggregates containing MWSF or linked MWSF described herein may be mixed together prior to one or more post-processing operations, if any. For example, different MWSF-containing or linked MWSF-containing nanoparticles and aggregates of different properties (such as different sizes, different compositions, different purities, from different processing operations, etc.) can be mixed together. The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates containing MWSF or linked MWSF described herein can be mixed with graphene to vary the ratio of linked MWSF to graphene in the mixture. The different carbon nanoparticles and aggregates containing MWSF or linked MWSF described herein can be mixed together after post-processing. Different carbon nanoparticles and aggregates containing MWSF or linked MWSF with different properties and/or different post-processing methods (such as different sizes, different compositions, different functionality, different surface properties, different surface areas) can be any Amounts, ratios and/or combinations are mixed together.

The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein are produced and collected, and subsequently processed by mechanical grinding, milling, and/or exfoliation. Processing (such as by mechanical grinding, milling, exfoliation, etc.) can reduce the average size of the particles. Processing (such as by mechanical grinding, milling, exfoliation, etc.) increases the average surface area of the particles. Processing by mechanical grinding, milling, and/or exfoliation shears off portions of the carbon layer, thereby producing graphite flakes mixed with carbon nanoparticles.

Mechanical grinding or milling uses ball mills, planetary mills, rod mills, shear mixers, high shear granulators, autogenous grinders or is used to break solid materials into smaller pieces by grinding, crushing or cutting. Other types of machines for small pieces. Mechanical grinding, milling and/or stripping are performed dry or wet. Mechanical grinding is performed by grinding for a period of time, then idling for a period of time, and repeating grinding and idling for a certain number of cycles. The grinding time is 1 minute (minute) to 20 minutes, or 1 minute to 10 minutes, or 3 minutes to 8 minutes, or about 3 minutes, or about 8 minutes. The idle time is 1 minute to 10 minutes, or about 5 minutes, or about 6 minutes. The number of grinding and idling cycles is 1 minute to 100 minutes, or 5 minutes to 100 minutes, or 10 minutes to 100 minutes, or 5 minutes to 10 minutes, or 5 minutes to 20 minutes. The total amount of grinding and idling time is 10 minutes to 1,200 minutes, or 10 minutes to 600 minutes, or 10 minutes to 240 minutes, or 10 minutes to 120 minutes, or 100 minutes to 90 minutes, or 10 minutes to 60 minutes, or About 90 minutes, or about a few minutes.

The grinding step in the cycle is performed by rotating the mill in one direction (such as clockwise) in a first cycle and then in the opposite direction (such as counterclockwise) in the next cycle. Mechanical grinding or milling is performed using a ball mill, and the grinding step is performed using a rotation speed of 100 to 1000 rpm, or 100 to 500 rpm, or about 400 rpm. Mechanical grinding or milling is performed using a ball mill with a diameter of 0.1 mm to 20 mm, or 0.1 mm to 10 mm, or 1 mm to 10 mm, or about 0.1 mm, or about 1 mm, or about 10 mm milling media. Mechanical grinding or milling is performed using ball mills using zirconia stabilized by metals such as steel, oxides such as zirconium dioxide (zirconia), yttria, silica, alumina, magnesium oxide, or other hard materials Milling media such as silicon carbide or tungsten carbide.

The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein are produced and collected and subsequently processed using high temperatures, such as thermal annealing or sintering. Processing using high temperatures is performed in an inert environment such as nitrogen or argon. Processing using high temperatures is performed under atmospheric pressure or vacuum or low pressure. Processing using high temperatures is performed at the following temperatures: 500°C to 2,500°C, or 500°C to 1,500°C, or 800°C to 1,500°C, or 800°C to 1,200°C, or 800°C to 1,000°C, or 2,000°C to 2,400°C ℃, or about 8,00 ℃, or about 1,000 ℃, or about 1,500 ℃, or about 2,000 ℃, or about 2,400 ℃.

Producing and collecting the carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein and subsequently adding additional elements or compounds to the carbon nanoparticles in post-processing operations, thereby combining the unique properties of the carbon nanoparticles and aggregates with other material mixtures middle.

Carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein are added to solids, liquids, or slurries of other elements or compounds before or after post-processing to form additional material mixtures that combine the unique properties of the carbon nanoparticles and aggregates. The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein are mixed with other solid particles, polymers or other materials.

The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein may be used in a variety of applications in addition to applications related to making and using resonant materials, before or after post-processing. Such applications include, but are not limited to, transportation applications (such as automobile and truck tires, couplings, brackets, elastomeric "O" rings, hoses, sealants, grommets, etc.) and industrial applications (such as rubber additives, Functional additives for polymer materials, additives for epoxy resins, etc.).

Figures 18A and 18B show transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of synthesized carbon nanoparticles. The carbon nanoparticles of Figure 18A (first magnification) and Figure 18B (second magnification) contain connected multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) coated with a graphene layer. Due to the relatively short resonance time, the ratio of MWSF to graphene allotrope in this example is approximately 80%. The diameter of the MWSF in Figure 18B is approximately 5 nm to 10 nm, and using the above conditions, the diameter can be 5 nm to 500 nm. The average diameter of the MWSF is in the following range: 5 nm to 500 nm, or 5 nm to 250 nm, or 5 nm to 100 nm, or 5 nm to 50 nm, or 10 nm to 500 nm, or 10 nm to 250 nm, Or 10 nm to 100 nm, or 10 nm to 50 nm, or 40 nm to 500 nm, or 40 nm to 250 nm, or 40 nm to 100 nm, or 50 nm to 500 nm, or 50 nm to 250 nm, or 50 nm to 100 nm. No catalysts are used in this process, so there are no central seeds containing contaminants. The aggregated particles produced in this example have a particle size of about 10 µm to 100 µm or about 10 µm to 500 µm.

Figure 18C shows the Raman spectrum of the synthesized aggregates in this example acquired under 532 nm incident light. The aggregates produced in this example had an I _D / _IG of approximately 0.99 to 1.03, indicating that the aggregates were composed of carbon allotropes with a high degree of order.

Figures 18D and 18E show example TEM images of carbon nanoparticles after size reduction by grinding in a ball mill. The ball milling was performed in a plurality of cycles of 3 minutes (minutes) of counterclockwise grinding operation, followed by 6 minutes of idling operation, then 3 minutes of clockwise grinding operation, and then 6 minutes of idling operation. Use a rotation speed of 400 rpm for grinding operations. The milling medium is zirconium oxide and the size range is from 0.1 mm to 10 mm. Total size reduction processing time ranges from 60 minutes to 120 minutes. After size reduction, the aggregated particles produced in this example had a particle size of approximately 1 µm to 5 µm. The size-reduced carbon nanoparticles are connected MWSFs, and the graphene layer coats the connected MWSFs.

Figure 18F shows a Raman spectrum from these aggregates after size reduction obtained using 532 nm incident light. The aggregate particle in this example has an I _D / _IG of approximately 1.04 after size reduction. In addition, the particles after size reduction have a Bruno, Emmett, and Taylor (BET) specific surface area of about 40 m ² /g to 50 m ² /g.

Mass spectrometry and x-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy were used to measure the purity of the aggregates produced in the sample. The ratio of carbon to elements other than hydrogen measured in 16 different batches ranged from 99.86% to 99.98%, with an average carbon content of 99.94%.

In this example, a hot-wire processing system is used to produce carbon nanoparticles. The precursor material is methane, and its flow rate is 1 slm to 5 slm. Using these flow rates and tool geometries, the resonance time of the gas in the reaction chamber is approximately 20 seconds to 30 seconds, and the carbon particle production rate is approximately 20 g/hr.

Additional details regarding such processing systems can be found in the previously mentioned US Patent 9,862,602 entitled "CRACKING OF A PROCESS GAS," which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. Example 1

18G , 18H , and 18I show TEM images of the synthesized carbon nanoparticles of this example. The carbon nanoparticles contain connected multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF), and a graphene layer coats the connected MWSF. The ratio of multi-walled fullerene to graphene allotrope is approximately 30% in this example due to the relatively long resonance time allowing thicker or thicker graphene layers to coat the MWSF. No catalyst is used in this process, so there is no central seed containing contaminants. The synthetic aggregate particles produced in this example range in size from approximately 10 µm to 500 µm. Figure 18J shows the Raman spectrum of the aggregates from this example. The Raman signature of the synthetic particles in this example indicates a thicker graphene layer coating the MWSF in the synthetic material. In addition, the synthetic particles have a Bruno, Emmett, and Taylor (BET) specific surface area of approximately 90 m ² /g to 100 m ² /g. Example 2

18K and 18L show TEM images of the carbon nanoparticles of this example. Specifically, the images depict carbon nanoparticles after size reduction by grinding in a ball mill. The downscaling process conditions are the same as those described above with respect to FIGS. 18G - 18J . After size reduction, the aggregate particles produced in this example had a particle size of approximately 1 µm to 5 µm. TEM images show that connected MWSFs embedded in the graphene coating can be observed after size reduction. Figure 18M shows a Raman spectrum of aggregates from this example after size reduction, acquired using 532 nm incident light. The I _D /I _G of the aggregate particles in this example after size reduction is approximately 1, indicating that the connected MWSF embedded in the synthetic graphene coating becomes detectable in Raman after size reduction, and Very orderly. The size-reduced particles have a Bruno, Emmett, and Taylor (BET) specific surface area of approximately 90 m ² /g to 100 m ² /g. Example 3

Figure 18N is a scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of carbon aggregates showing graphite and graphene allotropes at a first magnification. Figure 18O is an SEM image of carbon aggregates showing graphite and graphene allotropes at a second magnification. Layered graphene is clearly shown within the twists (folds) of carbon. The 3D structure of carbon allotropes is also visible.

The particle size distribution of the carbon particles of Figures 18N and 18O is shown in Figure 18P . The mass-based cumulative particle size distribution 1806 corresponds to the left y-axis in the graph (Q ³ (x) [%]). The histogram of the mass particle size distribution 1808 corresponds to the right-hand axis (dQ ³ (x) [%]) in the graph. The median particle size is approximately 33 μm. The 10th percentile particle size is approximately 9 μm, and the 90th percentile particle size is approximately 103 μm. The mass density of the particles is approximately 10 g/L. Example 4

The particle size distribution of carbon particles captured from the multi-stage reactor is shown in Figure 18Q . The mass-based cumulative particle size distribution 1814 corresponds to the left y-axis in the graph (Q ³ (x) [%]). The histogram of the mass particle size distribution 1816 corresponds to the right-hand axis (dQ ³ (x) [%]) in the graph. The median captured particle size is approximately 11 μm. The 10th percentile particle size is approximately 3.5 μm, and the 90th percentile particle size is approximately 21 μm. The graph in Figure 18Q also shows the number-based cumulative particle size distribution 1818 corresponding to the left axis of the graph (Q ⁰ (x) [%]). The base median particle size ranges from about 0.1 μm to about 0.2 μm.

Returning to the discussion of Figure 18P , the graph also shows a second set of example results. Specifically, in this example, the particles are size reduced by mechanical grinding and the size reduced particles are subsequently processed using a cyclone separator. The mass-based cumulative particle size distribution 1810 of the captured size-reduced carbon particles in this example corresponds to the left y-axis in the graph (Q ³ (x) [%]). The histogram of the mass-based particle size distribution 1812 corresponds to the right-hand axis in the graph (dQ ³ (x) [%]). The median size of the captured size-reduced carbon particles in this example was approximately 6 μm. The 10th percentile particle size is 1 μm to 2 μm, and the 90th percentile particle size is 10 μm to 20 μm.

Additional details regarding the manufacture and use of cyclones can be found in U.S. Patent Application No. 15/725,928 entitled "MICROWAVE REACTOR SYSTEM WITH GAS-SOLIDS SEPARATION" filed on October 5, 2017, which application is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. Incorporated by reference in full.

In some cases, a microwave plasma reactor system may be used to produce carbon particles and aggregates containing graphite, graphene, and amorphous carbon using precursor materials containing methane, or containing isopropyl alcohol (IPA) , or contain ethanol, or contain concentrated hydrocarbons (such as hexane). In some other examples, the carbonaceous precursor is optionally mixed with a supply gas, such as argon. The particles produced in this example contained graphite, graphene, amorphous carbon, and no seed particles. The particles in this example have a ratio of carbon to other elements (except hydrogen) of approximately 99.5% or greater.

In one particular example, hydrocarbons are the input material to a microwave plasma reactor, and the separated output of the reactor includes hydrogen gas and carbon particles containing graphite, graphene, and amorphous carbon. Separating carbon particles from hydrogen in a multi-stage gas-solids separation system. The solids content of the separated output from the reactor ranges from 0.001 g/L to 2.5 g/L. Example 5

Figure 18R , Figure 18S and Figure 18T are TEM images of synthesized carbon nanoparticles. The images show examples of graphite, graphene and amorphous carbon allotropes. Layers of graphene and other carbon materials are clearly visible in the image.

The particle size distribution of the captured carbon particles is shown in Figure 18U . The mass-based cumulative particle size distribution 1820 corresponds to the left y-axis in the graph (Q ³ (x) [%]). The histogram of the mass particle size distribution 1822 corresponds to the right-hand axis (dQ ³ (x) [%]) in the graph. The median particle size captured in the cyclone in this example is approximately 14 μm. The 10th percentile particle size is approximately 5 μm, and the 90th percentile particle size is approximately 28 μm. The graph in Figure 18U also shows the base cumulative particle size distribution 1824 corresponding to the left axis of the graph (Q ⁰ (x) [%]). The base median particle size in this example is about 0.1 μm to about 0.2 μm.

Figures 18V , 18W , and 18X and 18Y are images showing three-dimensional carbon-containing structures grown onto other three-dimensional structures. Figure 18V is a 100x magnification of the three-dimensional carbon structure grown on the carbon fiber, and Figure 18W is a 200x magnification of the three-dimensional carbon structure grown on the carbon fiber. Figure 18X is a 1601x magnification of the three-dimensional carbon structure grown on the carbon fiber. Three-dimensional carbon growth on the fiber surface is shown. Figure 18Y is a 10,000 times magnified view of the three-dimensional carbon structure grown on the carbon fiber. This image depicts growth to the basal plane and to the marginal plane.

More specifically, Figures 18V - 18Y show example SEM images of 3D carbon materials grown onto fibers using plasma energy from a microwave plasma reactor and thermal energy from a thermal reactor. Figure 18V shows an SEM image of interlaced fibers 1831 and 1832 , where 3D carbon material 1830 is grown on the surface of the fibers. Figure 18W is a higher magnification image showing 3D carbon material 1830 on fiber 1832 (scale bar is 300 μm compared to 500 μm in Figure 18V ). Figure 18X is a further enlarged view (scale bar: 40 μm) showing the 3D carbon material 1830 on the fiber surface 1835 , where the 3D properties of the 3D carbon material 1830 can be clearly seen. Figure 18Y shows a close-up view of carbon alone (scale bar 500 nm) showing the interconnection between the basal plane of the fiber 1832 and the edge planes 1834 of the numerous sub-particles of the 3D carbon material grown on the fiber. Figures 18V - 18Y demonstrate the ability to grow 3D carbon on 3D fiber structures, such as 3D carbon growths on 3D carbon fibers.

3D carbon growth on the fibers can be achieved by introducing multiple fibers into a microwave plasma reactor and using the plasma to etch the fibers in the microwave reactor. Etching creates nucleation sites at which the growth of 3D carbon structures begins as carbon particles and subparticles are produced by dissociation of hydrocarbons in the reactor. The direct growth of 3D carbon structures onto fibers (which are themselves three-dimensional) provides a highly integrated 3D structure with pores into which resin can penetrate. Compared to composites with conventional fibers, which have smooth surfaces that are often delaminated from the resin matrix, the 3D reinforcing matrix for resin composites (including those integrated with high aspect ratio reinforcing fibers) 3D carbon structures) resulting in enhanced material properties such as tensile strength and shear.

Carbon materials, such as any one or more 3D carbon materials described herein, may have one or more exposed surfaces prepared for functionalization, such as to promote adhesion and/or the addition of various elements such as oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, silicon, or Hardener. Functionalization refers to the addition of functional groups to compounds through chemical synthesis. In materials science, functionalization can be used to achieve desired surface properties; for example, functional groups can also be used to covalently attach functional molecules to the surface of chemical devices. The carbon material can be functionalized in situ, that is, in situ in the same reactor in which the carbon material is produced. Carbon materials can be tubed during post-processing. For example, the surface of fullerene or graphene can be functionalized with oxygen- or nitrogen-containing substances, which form bonds with the polymer of the resin matrix, thereby improving adhesion and providing strong bonding forces to enhance the strength of the composite.

Any one or more of the disclosed carbon-based materials, such as CNTs, CNO, graphene, 3D carbon materials, such as 3D graphene, can be performed using the plasma reactors described herein, such as microwave plasma reactors. Functionalized surface treatment. Such treatment may include in-situ surface treatment during production of the carbon material that can be combined with binders or polymers in the composite material, or surface treatment after production of the carbon material while the carbon material is still in the reactor.

Some of the aforementioned embodiments include resonators that include a plurality of three-dimensional (3D) aggregates formed from carbonaceous material embedded within one or more plies of the tire. However, some embodiments include resonators that are printed or otherwise disposed on the inner surface of the tire (eg, on the inner liner of the tire).

Figure 19A1 provides an illustration 19A100 of a split ring resonator or split ring resonators placed in concrete before the concrete is poured into a given structural form, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 19A100 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, the illustrated 19A100 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown in Figure 19A1 , a split ring resonator can be incorporated into the concrete pour flow 1902 . The split ring resonator or resonators 1904 may be mixed into the concrete 1906 while the concrete is in the mixing vessel, or the split ring resonator or resonators may be in mid-flow state during pouring. mixed into the concrete.

The split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may be trapped within the concrete pour flow 1902 . Split-ring resonators can be trapped within the template in any orientation, but may be stabilized near the base of the structural element; for example, where any given split-ring resonator can be oriented such that the normal vector from the plane of the split-ring resonator substantially vertical, or any given split ring resonator may be oriented such that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator is substantially horizontal, or any given split ring resonator may be oriented such that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator The normal vector to the plane of the vessel is at an angle between vertical and horizontal.

In some cases, a split ring resonator will be trapped within the template relatively close to the template boundary. In other cases, the split ring resonator ends up relatively far from the template boundary within the template. This is due to the natural tendency (eg, fluid dynamics) of foreign objects (eg, split ring resonators) to randomly locate within the concrete pour flow 1902 . Techniques for detecting the split ring resonator with a signal and for receiving the return signal are operable regardless of the position of the split ring resonator in the template. More specifically, because of the wide signal-to-noise ratio (see 18 dB spacing as shown in Figure 17 ), the return signal from any given split-ring resonator at any particular location can be received and processed to facilitate communication with Comparison of calibration signals. This technique can be applied to a variety of structures, one such example can be seen in Figure 19A1 , which shows vertically oriented concrete structural members.

The foregoing examples relate to vertically oriented concrete structural members, however, the techniques disclosed herein are also applicable when forming horizontally oriented concrete structural members (or concrete structural members at any angle).

Figure 19A2 provides an illustration 19A200 of a split ring resonator or split ring resonators placed in concrete before the concrete is poured into a given structural form, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 19A200 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 19A200 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

In one embodiment, Figure 19A2 illustrates a split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 that may be coupled to the concrete pour stream 1902 when pouring the slab 1910 . A split ring resonator or plurality of split ring resonators 1904 may be mixed into the concrete 1906 while the concrete is in the mixing vessel, or a split ring resonator or plurality of split ring resonators 1904 may be mixed into the concrete during pouring while the concrete is in mid-flow. When mixed into concrete 1906 .

The split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may be captured within the concrete pour flow 1902 and within the formwork in any orientation. For example, any given split ring resonator may be oriented such that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator is substantially vertical, or any given split ring resonator may be oriented such that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator is substantially vertical. The normal vector is substantially horizontal, or any given split ring resonator can be oriented so that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator is at an angle between vertical and horizontal. In one embodiment, the split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may be dispersed closer to the walls of the horizontally oriented concrete structural member 1914 . In certain embodiments, the split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may end up within the form relatively close to the top surface of the horizontally oriented concrete structural member 1914 . In certain other embodiments, the split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may be relatively close to the bottom surface of a horizontally oriented concrete structural member 1914 . Additionally, the split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may be oriented, integrated into, and/or attached to steel bars (or other support structures within the concrete member) such that during concrete pour 1902 into the concrete member, The position of the split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may be maintained.

In various embodiments, Figures 19A1 and 19A2 illustrate a split ring resonator placed in concrete before the concrete is poured into a given structural form (eg, vertically oriented concrete structural members, horizontally oriented concrete structural members) or an embodiment of multiple split ring resonators. 19A1 and 19A2 are presented to illustrate one embodiment of a split ring resonator (eg, annular type or cylindrical type) or a plurality of split ring resonators 1904 (eg, annular type) before pouring concrete into the form. type, or cylindrical type, or a combination thereof) may be incorporated into the concrete mixture. The template can be of any shape. Strictly speaking, by way of example and as shown in Figure 19A1 , the formwork may be configured to receive pour flow for vertically oriented concrete structural members 1912 (eg, columns or walls 1908 as shown). Additionally or alternatively, and as shown in Figure 19A2 , the formwork may be configured to receive pour flow for horizontally oriented concrete structural members 1914 (eg, plate 1910 as shown).

Techniques for detecting the split ring resonator with a signal and for receiving the return signal regardless of the location of the split ring resonator within the formwork (e.g., at the top surface, at the bottom, within the concrete, etc.) Can be maintained and operational. More specifically, due to the wide signal-to-noise ratio (see 18dB spacing as shown in Figure 17 ), the return signal from any given split ring resonator at any particular location can be received and processed to facilitate communication with Comparison of previously captured calibration signals.

In one embodiment, the aforementioned calibration signal may be captured once the pouring stream solidifies. Such calibration signals may be stored in a database and/or in any system that stores the specified information. At a later time, the structural member can be interrogated with the acoustic pulse wave signal, and its current return signal can be compared to the corresponding calibration signal. In one embodiment, the difference between the later captured signal and the calibration signal may indicate a change in compression between the time the calibration signal was captured and the time the interrogation was performed.

A similar approach may be applied where there are a plurality of split ring resonators dispersed throughout the structural member. Specifically, probing in a region of a structural member where there are many split ring resonators at substantially the same location will return a calibration signal that can also be stored in a database or any other system that can store information. Likewise, at any later time, the structural member can be interrogated with the acoustic pulse wave signal, and its current return signal can be compared to the corresponding calibration signal. If a difference is determined between the two signals, this phenomenon may indicate changes in the structure and/or its constituent materials. There are many possible techniques for analyzing changes in response (eg, due to compression, or due to bending, etc.), some of which are shown and described with respect to Figure 19B1 .

Figure 19B1 shows a diagram 19B00 of a column containing the split ring resonator or split ring resonators and equations for measuring changes within a structural member, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 19B00 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 19B00 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, plot 19B00 shows a cured column containing a split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 and various equations for measuring changes within the structural member. Additionally, compression changes 1916 in the material surrounding the split ring resonator 1904 result in changes in the response 1922 from the split ring resonator (as shown in Figure 19B2 ). Additionally, Figure 19B1 shows an example equation, Equation 6, for measuring the degree of compression within a structural member as a function of compression. Additionally, while Equation 6 is shown as relating to compression, and Equation 7 (below) is shown as relating to changes in response, it should be understood that any changes in torsion, hygrometry (humidity), bending, response, material properties, etc. may It is the basis for judging and/or measuring the changes of the split ring resonator.

In one embodiment, a single-purpose model may support structural assessment of concrete foundations for infrastructure (eg, apartment buildings, apartments, homes, hotels). In addition, single-purpose models can generally support structural assessment of a building's infrastructure, including monitoring steel beams, support columns/pillars, and other aspects of structural health monitoring. Ongoing or periodic monitoring of material integrity over time may indicate whether the materials forming the structure have changed, for example, due to aging, excessive or associated stresses, and/or due to physical damage, etc. In some cases, imminent failure of materials can be prevented to avoid disaster. In some cases, multiple structural members may be combined into a load-bearing structure whose integrity will be monitored over time. For example, calibration and periodic monitoring can be accomplished in two steps. In a first step, the technician operating the signal generator (or similar tool) tunes the signal generator to the selected frequency and transmits the signal near the split ring resonator in the structural member. Capture the return signal from the split-ring resonator and/or its characteristics (e.g., attenuation, single-frequency resonance, multi-frequency resonance, etc.). The technician stores the return signal and/or its characteristics as calibration points related to the acoustic pulse wave at that location and at that given point in time. The return signal and/or its characteristics are then used as a calibration signature corresponding to the point in time when the material is considered to have a baseline state of structural integrity.

In a second step performed at any later time after the first step, the technician may repeat the detection and feature capture process to collect current data returned by the split ring resonator in the structural member. Comparison between calibration characteristics and current data can potentially indicate changes in material integrity. In one embodiment, response changes 1918 may indicate compression changes only. Certain ranges of compression changes over time may be considered normal and may occur during normal use (for example, when a structure buckles under stresses caused by earth motions such as earthquakes). In addition to the aforementioned techniques for measuring compression changes, other techniques related to measuring bending changes are also presented below.

Figure 19B2 shows a diagram 19B02 of a column containing the split ring resonator or split ring resonators and equations for measuring changes within a structural member, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 19B02 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 19B02 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

In one embodiment, diagram 19B02 shows a cured plate containing the split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 and an example equation for measuring the degree of bending in a structural member as a function of bending, Equation 7. Additionally, the change in curvature 1920 of the material surrounding the split ring resonator 1904 results in a change in the response 1922 from the split ring resonator, thereby causing a different signal response than the initially determined signal response. This information is considered essential for monitoring the integrity of the material in its application.

As mentioned previously in a given case, a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 will be implemented in the concrete foundation to allow monitoring of the material. This can be accomplished, for example, in a two-step manner. In a first step, a technician operating a signal generator (or similar tool) that can emit a signal in the vicinity of a split ring resonator in a structural member tunes the signal generator to a selected frequency. Capture the return signal from the split-ring resonator and/or its characteristics (e.g., attenuation, single-frequency resonance, multi-frequency resonance, etc.). The technician stores the return signal and/or its characteristics as calibration points related to the acoustic pulse wave at that location and at that given point in time. The return signal and/or its characteristics are then used as a calibration signature corresponding to the point in time when the material is considered to have a baseline state of structural integrity.

When implementing the split ring resonator or split ring resonators into the component, the precise orientation and position may not be controllable during casting, however, the two-step procedure described above may still be used. This is because when a plurality of split ring resonators are probed, the overall effect signal (returns from multiple split ring resonators) can be used for calibration. Likewise, in a second step performed at any subsequent time after the first step, the technician will repeat the detection and feature capture process to collect current data returned by the split ring resonator in the structural member. Comparison between calibration characteristics and current data can potentially indicate changes in material integrity. On the other hand, response changes 1918 may indicate compression changes only. Certain ranges of compression changes over time may be considered normal and may occur during normal use (for example, when a structure buckles under stresses caused by earth motions such as earthquakes). In addition to the aforementioned techniques for measuring compression changes, other techniques related to measuring bending changes are also presented below.

If a structural member is already in a given use, a split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may still be implemented on the structural member regardless of physical characteristics (eg, shape, size, location). An example of such a situation is shown and described with respect to FIG. 20 .

Figure 20 illustrates the use 2000 of a split ring resonator according to one embodiment outside of variously shaped structural members already in use. Optionally, use 2000 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. However, of course, use of 2000 can be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

In one embodiment, Figure 20 also shows examples of possible factors and equations that may be critical in determining the size, orientation, location and application of a split ring resonator or resonators on a structural member. Additionally, Figure 20 illustrates the use of a split ring resonator applied to the exterior of structural members of varying shapes. Figure 20 shows examples of possible factors and equations that may be critical in determining the size, orientation, location and application of the split ring resonator or resonators on a structural member.

More specifically, FIG. 20 illustrates a horizontal member 2002 to which a split ring resonator 1904 can be attached (e.g., using ultrasonic welding) and used in a given application (e.g., axle assembly, tie rod assembly, push rod, rebar, etc. ) used in. In addition to horizontal elongated members, split ring resonators may also be attached to curved members 2004 (eg, bucket handles, suspension portions, portions of springs, steel bars, etc.).

In one particular case, a split ring resonator 1904 or a plurality of split ring resonators may be applied to the rebar using any known technique, after which the rebar may be placed in a form. The juxtaposition of the split ring resonators on the rebar when concrete or other construction composite materials are poured into the form and the juxtaposition of the split ring resonator in the form is the same as when the split ring supplier is applied to the rebar and placed in the form. The situation remains essentially the same. Accordingly, a split ring resonator can be positioned so as to be substantially aligned with a horizontally oriented plane (ie, in the "X" direction), or so as to be substantially aligned with a vertically oriented plane (ie, in the "Y" direction on), or substantially aligned with the depth orientation plane (i.e., in the "Z" direction).

Additionally or alternatively, the split ring resonator may be attached to a flat structural member 2006 (eg, an automobile hood). In this given application, a split-ring resonator can be used to dynamically measure the curvature of an automobile's hood at any given moment. This method has many advantages compared to using a wind tunnel to measure the curvature of a car's hood. This is because, in a wind tunnel situation, the vehicle is stationary, whereas in the intended use model, where the vehicle is actually moving, the actual real-time response can be calculated. Therefore, the split ring resonator or resonators 1904 provide instant feedback during actual driving conditions.

The determined size of the split ring resonator or resonators for each structural member may depend on the size of the member and the application. This is shown by Equation 8. Specifically, the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators of different sizes resonate at corresponding different frequencies. Different sizes can be considered during initial calibration testing.

In some cases (for example, when a split ring resonator is applied to a straight horizontal member, or when a split ring resonator is applied to a curved member, or when a split ring resonator is applied to a flat member), it can be determined according to Analysis of the finite element model (eg, using CAD software such as SOLIDWORKS, AGROS2D, CALCILIX) determines or infers the optimal position (Eq. 10) and/or orientation (Eq. 9). More specifically, the results of the finite element analysis will produce bending vectors, compression vectors and expansion vectors depending on the application and the associated desired properties. Based on the results of the finite element analysis, specific structural members may be configured with split ring resonators in corresponding positions (Equation 10) and/or orientations (Equation 9).

Figure 21 is a flow diagram 2100 representing a process for implementing a split ring resonator in a given application, according to one embodiment. Optionally, flowchart 2100 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, flowchart 2100 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, the first step in the process is to determine whether the scenario permits internal or external placement of a split ring resonator (step 2102 ). In the case of an internal application of the split ring resonator or split ring resonators (step 2104 ), a decision hybrid technique will need to be determined (step 2106 ). In one embodiment, the split ring resonator or resonators may be combined with an aggregate mixture or cement. The aggregate mixture or cement may then be poured into the structure or foundation, and the split ring resonators will be randomly dispersed in the mixture, ultimately forming the member (step 2110 ).

Once the foundation or structure has solidified, the split ring resonator can be calibrated and initial conditions or calibration features can be collected (step 2114 ). To achieve the calibration signature, a unique signal is used to detect the response from the split ring resonator. Based on the properties of the medium in which the split ring resonator is embedded, a response can be produced that varies with the parameters of that medium (compression, density, frequency, etc.). This initial reading when the structure is in some initial state can become a calibration signature and reference parameter for future comparisons. Of course, it will be appreciated that this initial reading may be reset (and/or recalibrated) at a later point in time (such as cement recasting, seismic upgrades, etc.).

In the case of external applications (such as via ultrasonic welding), the split ring resonator or resonators will be integrated into the assembly in a manner that does not compromise the accuracy of the split ring resonator. The correct data can be collected from the split ring resonator (step 2108 ) using the orientation, location, and application of the split ring resonator (eg, the split ring resonator is mounted to the motor axle). The orientation of the split-ring resonator relative to this axis can be used to achieve normal, horizontal, or angular vectors relative to the plane of the split-ring resonator that do not compromise the signal-to-noise ratio and allow for operational transmission of calibration features or points. Back. The location of the split ring resonator on the shaft can be placed in fault and fluctuating stress areas to properly monitor the integrity of the shaft. Sonic welding (step 2112 ) of the split ring resonator to the shaft may be employed to ensure accuracy of the split ring resonator calibration features and points. Sonic welding, which allows dissimilar materials to be combined, does not use solder or other materials to create solder joints that could inhibit or alter the response of a split-ring resonator. Of course, it should be understood that any type of attachment could be used instead of welding.

As shown in the flowchart, both external and internal processes converge into the test event (step 2116 ). During a test event, stimuli are applied (step 2118 ), and responses are measured (step 2120 ). A test event is used to collect calibration points and compare the calibration points to calibration features (step 2122 ). After a given amount of time has elapsed, and strictly speaking, by way of example, a stress event on the structure or component has occurred, or a routine maintenance inspection or visual observation of the component or structure necessitates testing. While structures or components may differ in structural integrity, the calibration points returned by this test may be substantially similar to calibration features collected later. Obtaining the necessary calibration can be accomplished using a two-step technique. In a first step (step 2120 ), the technician operating the signal generator (or similar tool) tunes the signal generator to the selected frequency and transmits the signal near the split ring resonator in the structural member. Capture the return signal from the split-ring resonator and/or its characteristics (e.g., attenuation, single-frequency resonance, multi-frequency resonance, etc.). The technician stores the return signal and/or its characteristics as calibration points related to the acoustic pulse wave at that location and at that given point in time. The return signal and/or its characteristics are then used as a calibration signature corresponding to the point in time when the material is considered to have a baseline state of structural integrity.

In a second step (step 2122 ) performed at any later time after the first step, the technician will repeat the detection and feature capture process to collect current data returned by the split ring resonator in the structural member. Comparison between calibration characteristics and current data can potentially indicate changes in material integrity. On the other hand, response changes 1918 may indicate compression changes only. Certain ranges of compression changes over time may be considered normal and may occur during normal use (for example, when structures buckle under stresses caused by earth motions such as earthquakes). In addition to measuring compression changes In addition to the aforementioned techniques, other techniques related to measuring bending changes are also presented below. Regardless of the shape of the component, previous techniques or any related techniques disclosed herein can be used to collect necessary information.

The calibration points are then compared to the calibration features. If the difference between the two signals is outside the acceptable error threshold or tolerance ("YES" decision option 2124 ), then the "YES" decision branch 2124 is taken and reported (step 2126 ). In addition, FIGS . 22A1 to 22A3 illustrate other embodiments applying the foregoing content.

Figures 22A1-22A3 are presented to illustrate the use of a plurality of split ring resonators or a plurality of split ring resonators in a roadside barrier according to one embodiment. Optionally, Figures 22A1-22A3 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, Figures 22A1-22A3 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, Figure 22A1 illustrates a road 2202 that contains a concrete barrier 2206 and/or a metal barrier 2204 , or possibly both, using a split ring resonator or a plurality of split ring resonators. Roadside barriers are designed to reduce the severity of potential vehicle accidents (e.g., over cliffs, into bodies of water, etc.) by absorbing forces from oncoming cars and by allowing the barrier's body to deform in shape, preventing the car from continuing in its path. sex. After this is completed, the integrity of the barrier material may change due to deformation of the material and may need to be replaced. Although the outer physical form of the barrier appears to be unchanged, deformation may have occurred within the material, causing it to weaken due to impact, requiring the barrier to be replaced.

To determine when and how often a given barrier may need to be replaced, as shown in Figure 22A2 , a split ring resonator can be placed in a concrete barrier (eg, an example of the technique shown in Figure 19A ). Once the foundation or structure has solidified, the split ring resonator can be calibrated, and initial conditions or calibration features can be collected, for example, by a two-step technique. In a first step, the technician operating the signal generator (or similar tool) tunes the signal generator to the selected frequency and transmits the signal near the split ring resonator in the concrete barrier. Capture the return signal from the split-ring resonator and/or its characteristics (e.g., attenuation, single-frequency resonance, multi-frequency resonance, etc.). The technician stores the return signal and/or its characteristics as calibration points related to the acoustic pulse wave at that location and at that given point in time. The return signal and/or its characteristics are then used as a calibration signature corresponding to the point in time when the material is considered to have a baseline state of structural integrity.

The same situation applies to the metal barrier presented in Figure 22A3 . The split ring resonator may also be attached by the application technique of step 2112 (eg, ultrasonic welding). Once attached to the metal barrier, the split ring resonator can be calibrated and the initial state or calibration signature can be collected using the previous two-step technique. Similarly, a track barrier may use multiple split ring resonators to monitor the integrity of the barrier, as illustrated in Figure 22B .

Of course, it should be understood that the split ring resonator can be embedded in other materials (in addition to the concrete barrier of Figure 22A2 and/or the metal barrier of Figure 22A3 ), including but not limited to: aerospace related embodiments (e.g., wings, aircraft landing gear, aircraft components, etc.), navigation-related embodiments (e.g., sails, masts, buoys, structural steel, etc.), utility-related embodiments (e.g., power line structures, transmission lines, pipelines, etc.), construction-related embodiments (e.g., Beams, concrete towers, etc.), biomedical related embodiments (e.g., prosthetics, implants, orthotics, etc.), professional sports equipment related embodiments (e.g., helmets, protective pads, hand tools, footwear, etc.), forged or Smelting related embodiments (e.g., metals, composites, alloys, etc.), power generation related embodiments (e.g., solar arrays, hydroelectric dams, wind turbines, natural gas storage and transportation, etc.), automotive related safety and/or performance embodiments (e.g., engine efficiency, suspension, chassis and body integrity, etc.), manufacturing-related embodiments (e.g., assembly, 3D printing, component consolidation, testing, etc.), printing, component consolidation, testing, etc.), agriculture-related embodiments (e.g., assembly, 3D printing, component consolidation, testing, etc.) , growth rate, temperature control, moisture saturation, ultraviolet irradiation, etc.) and/or space travel related embodiments (e.g., airlock effectiveness, propellant container integrity, launch effect tolerance measurement, space capsule/machine during flight body deformation, etc.). In short, the use of a split ring resonator to determine the deformation of the material to which it is attached or incorporated may be relevant to any application to which it may be embedded and/or attached, where the substrate to which the split ring resonator is attached or embedded has any of the substrate's Deformation will indicate a sufficiently durable state of material fatigue.

As a specific example, drilling platforms are often exposed to the high temperatures and corrosive environments of offshore applications. Such conditions often result in drill pipe failure, primarily caused by metal fatigue. In one embodiment, embedding the split ring resonator within the drill pipe itself will allow detection of metal fatigue before it results in drill pipe failure (and the inherent complexities resulting from such failure). Consistent with the description herein, the split ring resonator embedded in the drill pipe can be initially calibrated, where initial state or calibration characteristics can be collected (consistent with the two-step technique). A signal generator (or similar tool) tunes the signal generator to a selected frequency and transmits the signal next to the split ring resonator in the drill pipe. The return signal and/or its characteristics can be captured, which can then be stored as a calibration signature for the current material. At a later time period (consistent with step 2116 ), the stimulus can be applied (per step 2118 ) and the response can be measured (per step 2120 ), which can then be compared to the calibration signature (per step 2122 ). It will be appreciated that stimulation can be applied at a rate for any time period predetermined by the user (eg, every minute, every day, every week, every month, etc.). In this way, deformations (which can indicate fatigue cracks, crack growth, etc.) can be measured within the drill pipe and detected before actually causing drill pipe failure.

Figure 22B illustrates a roadside barrier 22B00 for use in a racetrack, showing the structural components that make up the roadside barrier in which a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators may be placed, according to one embodiment. Optionally, roadside barrier 22B00 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, roadside barrier 22B00 may be implemented in any desired environmental context. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

In one embodiment, roadside barrier 22B00 may include a steel and foam energy reducing barrier. As shown, the track is on one side of the foam absorber (with internal split ring resonator 2208 ). Steel and foam energy-reducing barriers can be used in high-speed sections of some racetracks and reduce the severity of accidents by absorbing kinetic energy during impact, as well as separating spectators from possible hazards and/or preventing hazards in the event of a car collision. Materials fall into the crowd to do their work. When the barrier comes into contact with one or more cars, the absorbed energy is spread along the sides of the wall, thereby reducing damage to the cars and preventing injuries to spectators.

Additionally, the split ring resonator array 2212 may be placed on the surface of the pushrod steel barrier 2210 and/or within it to obtain the information needed to determine barrier integrity after, for example, one or more collisions, or at a certain time. Determine the integrity of the barrier within a period of time. In an exemplary case, the split ring resonator array 2212 may be placed in front and behind the push rod steel barrier and/or embedded in the foam absorber and/or placed on or in any concrete wall.

In one particular embodiment, after the split ring resonator array 2212 has been disposed (e.g., placed in a foam absorber with internal split ring resonators 2208 and/or placed outside or inside the pushrod steel barrier 2210 , and/or placed outside or inside the foam absorber, etc.), the split ring resonator can be calibrated using the two-step technique detailed in this article.

In a first step, a technician operating a signal generator (or similar tool) in a foam absorber with an internal or external split ring resonator 2008 and /or emit a signal near a split ring resonator outside or inside pushrod barrier 2210 . Capture the return signal from the split-ring resonator and/or its characteristics (e.g., attenuation, single-frequency resonance, multi-frequency resonance, etc.). The technician stores the return signal and/or its characteristics as calibration points related to the acoustic pulse wave at that location and at that given point in time. The return signal and/or its characteristics are then used as a calibration signature corresponding to the point in time when the material is considered to have a baseline state of structural integrity.

In a second step performed at any later time after the first step, the technician will repeat the detection and feature capture process to collect current data returned by the split ring resonator in the structural member. Comparison between calibration characteristics and current data can potentially indicate changes in material integrity. On the other hand, response changes 1918 may indicate compression changes only. Certain ranges of compression changes over time may be considered normal and may occur during normal use (for example, when structures buckle under stresses caused by earth motions such as earthquakes). In addition to measuring compression changes In addition to the aforementioned techniques, other techniques related to measuring bend changes are also presented below. After analysis of the collected data, a report can be created in which it can be determined that the barrier needs to be replaced.

Figure 23 shows an illustration 2300 of a split ring resonator disposed on the surface of a concrete structure after the concrete is poured into a given structural form, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 2300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 2300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, illustration 2300 includes a split ring resonator (eg, split ring resonator 1904 ₁ , Split ring resonator 1904 ₂ , split ring resonator 1904 ₃ ). Placement of such a split ring resonator (eg, surface applied split ring resonator 2302 shown) can be accomplished as a "retrofit," in some cases long after the cast has solidified, and in some cases, Long after buildings were constructed using columns and/or walls. The construction, placement, and attachment of surface applied split ring resonator 2302 to the structure may be accomplished using any known technique. For example, such surface applied split ring resonators 2302 can be printed or screen printed onto a roll of substrate, and the roll of substrate, or portions thereof, can be applied (perhaps with adhesive) to the surface of a column or wall. In some cases, the substrate is lifted away, leaving the surface-applied split ring resonator 2302 attached to the surface of the column or wall. In some cases, surface applied split ring resonators 2302 can be printed directly onto the steel bars. In some cases, surface applied split ring resonator 2302 can be printed onto a substrate using an inkjet or bubblejet printer. In some cases, the surface applied split ring resonator 2302 may be printed onto the substrate using lithography or printing (eg, multi-color lithography). In some cases, surface applied split ring resonator 2302 may be printed onto a substrate using gravure printing techniques.

Calibration and test module 2301 may be located anywhere near surface applied split ring resonator 2302 . One or more calibration signatures based on a specific combination of the occurrence of the transmitted RF signal 210 and the corresponding occurrence of the returned RF signal 212 may be communicated to the upstream component 113 via the network. Strictly, as examples related to this and other embodiments, upstream components may include, but are not limited to, modules that perform continuous inspection and analysis of structures, modules that combine to function as early warning systems, compliance management modules and/or modules that comply with any regulatory reporting requirements.

Any of the aforementioned techniques for making and using split ring resonators can be combined. For example, surface-applied split ring resonators can be retrofitted onto the surface of roadside barriers and/or components thereof. Additionally, for example, the upstream component may include a track safety monitoring unit. Furthermore, a split ring resonator of a first geometry (eg, concentric rings) in the split ring resonator can be combined (eg, proximally collocated) with a split ring resonator of a second geometry (eg, concentric cylinders). Strictly, as yet another example, roadside barriers made of steel and/or other barrier components made of steel of another conductive material can be used as the conductive layer, which is disposed on the surface of the roadside barrier. Any one or more split ring resonators are dielectrically isolated (e.g., via adhesive).

The foregoing discloses various methods for incorporating or otherwise embedding split ring resonators in the base material forming the intended structural member (eg, such as in a cement pour stream). Furthermore, the foregoing discloses various methods for attaching split ring resonators to the surface of a structural member, for example, such as a tie rod of a steering mechanism in an automobile. Alternatively, as also discussed in this article, it is envisaged to use an RF "horn" to emit a specific signal and measure the response of the embedded split ring resonator.

Some methods include placing (possibly printing) a split ring resonator on a "ground plane" forming an assembly that is in turn applied to the surface of a structural member. This can greatly improve the sensitivity of the split-ring resonator over a wide EM range.

The aforementioned methods support static non-destructive testing only by comparing the current response/feature to a previously acquired calibration response/feature and subsequently classifying the differences between the two features. More specifically, certain differences apparent between such characteristics may be associated with corresponding changes in physical properties. In some cases, changes in physical properties are indicative of aging (eg, embrittlement). In some cases, physical property changes indicate stretching, compression, other deformations, and the like.

In some cases, the physical property change indicates a dynamically changing property change (eg, vibration). Capturing a series of dynamically acquired responses/features and previously acquired calibration responses/features supports dynamic non-destructive testing. The apparent differences between the two sets of features may be related to changes in physical properties such as periodic deformations. In some cases, changes in physical properties are indicative of aging (eg, changes in elastic deformation curves). In some cases, changes in physical properties that occur between readings and/or are measured when comparing one series of readings to another can be indicative of elastic versus plastic deformation, which sometimes indicates impending failure. Strictly, as one example, when a measured elasticity curve (eg, based on a series of readings) is similarly designated as the elasticity curve region prior to a failure event, it may indicate that a component is about to fail.

Figure 24A illustrates a sensing buildup 24A00 including alternating layers of carbonaceous resin and carbon fibers in contact with each other, according to one embodiment. Optionally, sensing buildup 24A00 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, sensing stack 24A00 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, sensing buildup 24A00 includes a schematic side cross-sectional view composed of multiple layers stacked on top of each other, including (in order) carbonaceous resin 2404 ₂ , carbon fiber 2402 ₂ , carbonaceous resin 2404 ₁ and carbon fiber 2402 ₁ . In one embodiment, sensing buildup 24A00 may represent any of the sensors discussed with respect to what is shown in Figures 24A - 24C . The term "resin" (in polymer chemistry and materials science) generally refers to a solid or highly viscous substance of vegetable or synthetic origin that is usually converted into a polymer (a macromolecule or polymer composed of many repeating subunits). molecular). Synthetic resins can be industrially produced resins, usually viscous substances that are converted into hard polymers through a curing process. To cure, the resin often contains reactive end groups such as acrylates or epoxides. The term "carbon fiber" refers to fibers approximately 5 to 10 micrometers (µm) in diameter and composed primarily of carbon atoms. Carbon fiber has several advantages, including high stiffness, high tensile strength, low weight, high chemical resistance, high temperature resistance and low thermal expansion.

Any one or more of carbon-containing resin 2404 ₂ , carbon fiber 2402 ₂ , carbon-containing resin 2404 ₁ and carbon fiber 2402 ₁ can be tuned by incorporating specific concentration levels of any one or more of the aforementioned carbon-containing microstructures for use in RF applications. A signal exhibits or exhibits one or more specific resonant frequencies when detected. The sensing buildup may include any one or more of carbonaceous resin 2404 ₂ , carbon fiber 2402 ₂ , carbonaceous resin 2404 ₁ , and carbon fiber 2402 ₁ in any configuration, orientation, sequence, or layering, and/or less or more Many include layers of similar or different materials. Additional resin layers may be layered with gaps between additional carbon fiber layers.

Each layer of carbonaceous resin can be formulated differently to resonate at different expected or desired tuned frequencies. The physical phenomenon of material resonance can be described based on the corresponding molecular composition. For example, a layer with a first defined structure (such as a first molecular structure) will resonate at a first frequency, while a layer with a second different molecular structure may resonate at a second different frequency.

Materials with a specific molecular structure contained in a layer will resonate at a first tuned frequency when the layer is in a low energy state and will resonate at a second, different frequency when the material in the layer is in an induced higher energy state. For example, materials in a layer that exhibit a specific molecular structure can be tuned to resonate at 3 GHz when the layer is in its natural, undeformed, low-energy state. Conversely, the same layer can resonate at 2.95 GHz when the layer is at least partially deformed from its natural, undeformed, low energy state. As a result, the phenomenon can be adapted to detect with high fidelity and accuracy even the smallest anomalies of the tire surface, such as a tire surface that is in contact with the road surface, such as a pavement, and experiences increased wear in some local area of contact. Even under time-sensitive race day conditions, cars competing on demanding circuits (high-tech, windy tracks with sharp turns and rapid elevation changes) can benefit from this type of localized tire wear or degradation information. Benefit from making informed tire replacement decisions. As described herein, this phenomenon may be applied to any context and/or application in which a split ring resonator may be integrated within or attached to a substrate.

24B1 and 24B2 illustrate frequency shifting phenomena as exhibited by a sensing buildup including carbon-containing tuned RF resonant materials, according to one embodiment. Optionally, Figures 24B1 and 24B2 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, Figures 24B1 and 24B2 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

The frequency shift phenomenon mentioned above (for example, in the case of FIG. 24A , a shift from resonance at a frequency of 3 GHz to resonance at a frequency of 2.95 GHz) is shown and discussed with reference to FIGS. 24B1 to 24B2 . Figure 24B2 illustrates the frequency shift phenomenon exhibited in a sensing buildup containing carbon-containing tuning resonant materials.

It is known that atoms emit electromagnetic radiation at the natural frequency of a given element. That is, atoms of a particular element have natural frequencies that correspond to the properties of the atoms. For example, when a cesium atom is stimulated, the valence electrons transition from a lower energy state (such as the ground state) to a higher energy state (such as the excited energy state). When an electron returns to its lower energy state, it emits electromagnetic radiation in the form of photons. For cesium, the emitted photons are in the microwave frequency range; 9.192631770 THz. Structures larger than atoms, such as molecules formed from multiple atoms, also resonate at predictable frequencies (such as by emitting electromagnetic radiation). For example, a pile of liquid water resonates at 109.6 THz. Water in a state of tension (such as at the surface of a water pile, in various surface tension states) resonates at 112.6 THz. Carbon atoms and carbon structures also exhibit natural frequencies that depend on the structure. For example, the natural resonance frequency of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) depends on the tube diameter and length of the CNTs. Growing CNTs under controlled conditions to control tube diameter and length results in controlling the structure's natural resonant frequency. Therefore, synthesizing or otherwise "growing" CNTs is one way to tune into the desired resonant frequency.

Other structures formed from carbon can be formed under controlled conditions. Such structures include, but are not limited to, carbon nanoonions (CNO), carbon lattice, graphene, carbon-containing aggregates or agglomerates, graphene-based, other carbon-containing materials, engineered nanoscale structures, etc., and/or Combinations thereof, any one of which is incorporated into the sensor of the carrier assembly according to the presently disclosed embodiments. Such structures may be formed to resonate at specific tuning frequencies, and/or such structures may be modified in post-processing to obtain desired characteristics or properties. Desired properties, such as high reinforcement values, can be achieved, for example, by selecting material combination ratios and/or by adding other materials. Furthermore, the co-localization of multiple such structures introduces other resonance effects. For example, two graphene flakes may resonate among themselves at a frequency that depends on the length, width, spacing, spacing shape, and/or other physical properties of the flakes and/or their juxtaposition to each other.

As is known in the art, materials have specific, measurable properties. This holds true for naturally occurring materials as well as engineered carbon allotropes. Such engineered carbon allotropes can be tuned to exhibit physical properties. For example, carbon allotropes can be designed to exhibit physical properties corresponding to: (a) the specific configuration of the constituent primary particles; (b) the formation of aggregates; and (c) the formation of agglomerates . Each of these physical properties affects the specific resonant frequency of the material formed using the corresponding specific carbon allotrope.

In addition to tailoring specific carbon-based structures to specific physical configurations corresponding to specific resonant frequencies, carbon-containing compounds can be tuned to a specific resonant frequency (or set of resonant frequencies). A set of resonant frequencies is called a resonance curve.

24B1 illustrates a first carbonaceous structure resonating at a first frequency that may be associated with an equivalent circuit including capacitor C ₁ and inductor L ₁ (note that the background to Equation 3 provided below may also found above with respect to Figure 2 and/or specifically in the carbon-containing structures of Figures 18A to 18Y ). The frequency _f1 is given by the following equation: (Equation 3)

Figure 24B2 illustrates a slight deformation of the first carbon-containing structure of Figure 24B1 . This deformation results in changes in the physical structure, which in turn changes the inductance and/or capacitance of the structure. These changes may be related to the equivalent circuit including capacitor C ₂ and inductor L ₂ . The frequency _f2 is given by the following equation: (Equation 4)

Figure 24B3 is a graph 24B300 illustrating idealized changes in RF resonance as a function of deflection, according to one embodiment. Optionally, graph 24B300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, graph 24B300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, graph 24B300 depicts the idealized change in measured resonance as a function of deflection. Optionally, one or more variations of graph 24B300 , or any aspect thereof, may be implemented in the context of the embodiments described herein. Graph 24B300 (or any aspect thereof) can be implemented in any environment.

The implementation shown in Figure 24B3 is only an example. The graph shown illustrates one aspect of deformation, especially deflection. When a component or surface is deformed by deflection, such as bending, the deformation can change the resonant frequency exhibited by the component when detected by a signal, such as an RF signal. The shape of the curve may depend on properties of the component, such as the properties of the layers forming the component or surface. The curve may be steep at small changes and flatten out when the deflection reaches a maximum. Additionally, the shape of the curve depends in part on the number of layers in the stack, the geometry of the carbon structure, how the carbon is bonded to the stack, etc.

Figure 24B4 is a graph 24B400 illustrating changes in RF resonance for 4-layer and 5-layer build-ups according to one embodiment. Optionally, graph 24B400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, graph 24B400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, graph 24B400 illustrates the resonance changes of the 4-layer build-up layer 292 and the 5-layer build-up layer 294 . Optionally, one or more variations of graph 24B400 , or any aspect thereof, may be implemented in the materials and systems described herein. Layered materials such as those described can be deployed in many applications. One specific application may be for surface sensors, which can be deployed in, on, or on many locations on a vehicle. An example of such a deployment may be shown and described in accordance with Figure 24C .

Figure 24C illustrates the deployment of surface sensors in an area of carrier 24C00 , according to one embodiment. Optionally, vehicle 24C00 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, vehicle 24C00 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, vehicle 24C00 shows an example surface sensor deployment in a selected location of the vehicle. Such example surface sensor deployments, or any aspects thereof, may be implemented in or on a vehicle exposed to any possible external environmental conditions (such as snow, sleet, hail, etc.).

In the context of durable sensors in various exterior surfaces of the vehicle, tuned resonance sensing carbonaceous materials may be incorporated into or combined with automotive features, surfaces, and/or components. As shown, the vehicle is equipped with surface sensors on the front wing of the vehicle (such as the hood), on the support members of the vehicle, and on the roof of the vehicle. During vehicle operation, each of the aforementioned locations on the vehicle may experience stresses and consequent deformations. For example, surface sensors on the front wing will experience changes in air pressure while the vehicle is in motion, such as during forward motion. The material constituting the surface may deform slightly under the influence of air pressure and exhibit a change in the resonant frequency of the material that is proportional to the degree of change or deformation of the material, according to the phenomenon described with reference to Figures 24B1 and 24B2 . Such changes can be detected using the "detection" and observation techniques described earlier.

The observed emission signals may collectively define the characteristics of a particular material or surface and may be further classified. Specific characteristics of the signal can be isolated for comparison and measurement to determine the calibration point corresponding to the isolated specific characteristics. Therefore, the state of the environment around the vehicle can be determined accurately and reliably.

For example, if deformation of a surface sensor results in a frequency shift from 3 GHz to 2.95 GHz, this difference can be mapped to a calibration curve, which can then give a value for air pressure. Vehicle components, such as panels, roofs, hoods, trunks, or wing components, can provide relatively large surface areas. In such cases, the transceiver antenna may be distributed on the observable side of the component. Several transceiver antennas can be distributed into an array, where each element of the array corresponds to a portion of a large surface area. As shown, each transceiver antenna can be mounted on or in the wheel well of the Surface Sensor Deployment 24C00 and be independently stimulated by acoustic pulses/chirps. In some cases, each element of the array can be stimulated sequentially, while in other cases, each element of the array can be stimulated simultaneously. The aerodynamics of a vehicle can be measured over a large surface area through signal processing used to distinguish characteristic returns from proximal array elements.

Signature returns from specific array elements can be analyzed relative to other environmental conditions and/or other sensed data. For example, the deflection of a particular portion of a wing assembly may be compared to the deflection of a different portion of the wing assembly, which in turn may be compared to current temperature, and/or current tire pressure, and/or any other sensation of the vehicle or its environment. Test samples to analyze this comparison. As mentioned previously, resonator circuits (such as those shown in 24B1 and 24B2 ) can be implemented by placing the resonator in the surface plane of the carrier (as shown in 24C ). Other embodiments have configurations specifically tuned to enable positioning of resonators (eg, split ring resonators) across the surface of the carrier. Arrays or matrices of surface sensors of varying sizes can be deployed in or over many locations on a vehicle to analyze current vehicle conditions. As described below, one such deployment can be seen, for example, in Figure 29 .

Figure 25A provides an illustration 2500 of the interaction between a vehicle and a split ring resonator disposed in road asphalt and/or on the road surface, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 2500 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 2500 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, representation 2500 may include a vehicle 2502 , a split ring resonator 2504 located in and/or on the road surface, and interaction of the road surface with the vehicle 2506 . In one embodiment, plot 2500 may be used to determine tire stiction (and/or rolling friction). For example, maintaining static contact with the road can control the vehicle (while losing static contact with the road can cause the vehicle to lose control). The split ring resonator 2504 can be used to measure tire (and/or interface) static friction (which varies with tire tread thickness). The process for determining tire static friction is explained in more detail below with reference to Figure 27 .

Figure 25B provides an illustration of how a split ring resonator disposed in or on a tire can be used to measure tire static friction, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 2500 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 2500 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, representation 2501 may include a carrier 2502 , a split ring resonator 2503 located in and/or on the tire, and tire interaction 2505 . In one embodiment, plot 2501 may be used to determine tire static friction (and/or rolling friction). For example, a split ring resonator 2503 located in and/or on a tire can be used to measure tire (and/or interface) static friction (as a function of tire tread thickness).

In various embodiments, the split ring resonator 2504 located in and/or on the road surface and the split ring resonator 2503 located in and/or on the tire can be used to measure the actual static friction between the tire and the road surface and to measure the tire's position on the road surface. actual thickness. Such measurements can be made instantly, even while the vehicle 2502 is operating. In this way, tire static friction can be measured continuously (or nearly continuously) with high accuracy, given the fact that split ring resonators 2504 and 2503 do not rely on electronics (which are more prone to failure and other mechanical problems).

For example, for the racing industry, split ring resonators (located in and/or on the vehicle, such as in its tires, and/or in and/or on the roadway) may provide drivers and maintenance personnel with information while the vehicle 2502 is in motion. Real-time data on real-time permittivity related to tire stiction. This real-time data allows for immediate feedback on how the tires respond and interact with the road surface, which in turn allows drivers and maintenance personnel to adjust and fine-tune the vehicle (e.g., tire tread type, tire power, windshield, side wings, spoilers, etc.) to achieve greater tire stiction (to at least maximize vehicle control and efficiency). Of course, any other fine-tuning can be made to the vehicle to ensure tire stiction.

In one embodiment, split ring resonators 2504 and 2503 may be low-cost sensors because they do not rely on electronics to function. Therefore, split ring resonators 2504 and 2503 not only improve real-time data collection (with greater accuracy), but are also less expensive than current alternatives.

Figure 26 illustrates placement 2600 of a split ring resonator disposed in road asphalt and/or on the road surface, according to one embodiment. Optionally, placement 2600 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, placement 2600 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, placement 2600 includes a carrier 2602 , a split ring resonator 2604 , and a carrier interaction 2606 . The location of the split ring resonator 2604 (as shown in Figure 26 ) is arbitrary. The key to the location of such a split ring resonator 2604 is that it can be placed anywhere in or on the road surface. In one embodiment, Figure 26 may be applied to a racing track, which may require a larger number of split ring resonators 2604 (for increased data collection and performance fine-tuning). In contrast, in other applications, such as on normal highways or thoroughfares, the locations of the split ring resonators 2604 may be spaced apart by a larger amount (since performance fine-tuning may not be required).

As discussed herein, the split ring resonator 2604 can be used to collect data related to tire stiction. This data can then be used to modify parameters associated with the car. Additionally, such information may be used for safety (vehicle and/or road) safety purposes. For example, if the split ring resonator 2604 determines that the immediate stiction level has decreased (indicating a loss of traction), the traffic advisory service can immediately alert other drivers to hazardous road conditions (and likewise in areas where a loss of traction is detected and/or Reduce the speed limit around). In this manner, split ring resonator 2604 may be used for traffic management and/or safety.

Additionally, split ring resonators, such as those located in and/or on the tire (such as split ring resonator 2503 ), may be used as conventional lock-up braking systems (which typically rely on wheel speed sensors and vehicle speed sensing to determine whether the tire has stopped rotating). The split ring resonator 2503 can provide more accurate data with less latency (such as milliseconds between detection time and reporting time to the control module). Furthermore, once again, because the split ring resonator 2503 does not rely on electronics to function (contrary to conventional sensor systems), it will be less prone to errors and failures.

In another embodiment, split ring resonator 2604 may be used to determine driver ability and/or track driver performance. For example, if an overly excited driver accelerates quickly or an aggressive driver brakes hard, such data can be used to create a driver profile (of driver performance). For drivers who are training (and need objective data feedback), such data can be used to help the driver train (learn to drive in a more enjoyable way). Additionally, such information may be relevant to auto insurance companies, where preferential rates may be associated with less aggressive driving history trends.

In this way, the split ring resonator 2604 can be used in a variety of scenarios and in a variety of ways, such that measuring tire stiction can be used not only to better control the vehicle (ensuring traction between the vehicle and the road), but also based on The data collected in this category can also be used for safety, driving training, insurance company rates, etc.

Figure 27 is a flowchart 2700 illustrating a process for determining tire stiction, according to one embodiment. Optionally, flowchart 2700 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, flowchart 2700 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, flowchart 2700 begins with determining tire tread thickness (step 2702 ). Next, determine the current measurement value (step 2704 ). For example, the current measurement may include the deformation of a split ring resonator at the tire's point of contact with the road. Such deformations (in the form of frequency shifts) can be measured, and the overall effect (something associated with and/or carried out by the action causing the deformation) can be tracked by the permittivity of the surrounding environment, including but not limited to water, Tar, asphalt (asphalt), concrete, etc. If the current measurement matches the baseline measurement (per decision 2706 ), the method returns to step 2702 to determine the tire tread thickness and returns to step 204 to determine the refractive index. When the refractive index does not match (per decision 2706 ), then method 2700 proceeds to step 2708 and the vehicle is adjusted to achieve a match.

In one embodiment, the refractive index may involve measuring the reflectivity of each tire layer (which may use the refractive index) and determining the permittivity of each tire layer. As tire friction is higher, tread thickness (and therefore reflectivity and permittivity) will increase proportionally. If tire stiction has been lost (ie, traction has been lost), there will be a mismatch (ie, disproportionate reflectivity and permittivity) relative to the tire tread thickness. In this way, tire tread thickness can be used to determine tire stiction from refractive index (and therefore reflectivity) and permittivity.

Additionally, refractive index mismatches in composite materials (especially in tires, asphalt, plastics, rubber, metal alloys, etc.) can be used to detect variations in the scattering parameters (or S-parameters, elements of the scattering matrix, etc.) at the static friction level. Such scattering parameters may involve stimulating (via wireless signals) one or more split ring resonators located in or on the tire (or vehicle, vehicle component, road surface, etc.). Such one or more split ring resonators can be used to obtain instant readings of tire tread thickness (which can in turn be used to determine tire stiction, as discussed above).

In addition, the use of split ring resonators (as a basis for determining tire stiction) provides a very economical small form factor solution that does not rely on electronics to function. Therefore, factors like these combined with high accuracy and low latency make split-ring resonators a viable solution for many applications.

Figure 28 shows a correlation 2800 between measurement frequency and tread thickness, according to one embodiment. Optionally, correlation 2800 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, the correlation 2800 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, tire 2802 includes a plurality of one or more tire belts (in a manner consistent with tire 1002 ). Carbon-based microstructures incorporated within tire 2802 may include split ring resonators. Such split ring resonators may have a natural resonance (such as approximately 1.0 GHz), and the tire 2802 may deform and/or otherwise change in response to external conditions (such as driving the tire). Deformations and/or changes within the tire 2802 can be measured as the frequency response of the split ring resonator (according to the response attenuation).

The frequency response is shown in model 2804 . In one embodiment, model 2804 may relate to impedance spectrum energy entering and exiting the tire. This energy (measured in terms of frequency) can be used to determine tire stiction. For example, the tire thickness of tire 2802 may change, such as between a natural state and a driving state in use. During in-use driving conditions, the tires 2802 may have stiction (and traction) with the road surface. Such a condition (with tire stiction) may be associated with a matching frequency model (in one example, shown in model 2804 ). However, when tire stiction is lost (ie, a loss of tire traction occurs), the corresponding model 2804 may no longer match. For example, when stiction is lost, the permittivity may drop rapidly. Calibration of how stiction works under different conditions allows current readings (and changes in readings) to be compared to a calibration curve.

In this manner, impedance spectroscopy can be used to measure frequency samples of split ring resonators found in or on tires. It will be appreciated that although correlation 2800 is shown with respect to one embodiment of a tire, other applications are contemplated in a similar manner (such as with automotive components, automotive skins, road surface conditions, metal fatigue conditions, construction materials, etc.).

Thus, a split ring resonator may be disposed in and/or on materials (including internal components such as wiring or external components such as road asphalt) and may be used to provide information about the material in and/or on which the split ring resonator is located.

Figure 29 illustrates a portion 2900 of a carrier surface in which an array of individually configured split ring resonators is disposed, according to one embodiment. Optionally, portion 2900 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, portion 2900 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, this portion of the vehicle surface 2902 may experience stresses and consequent deformations during vehicle operation, and a split ring resonator (shown as F ₁₁ in Figure 29 , F ₁₂ , F ₁₃ , F ₂₁ , F ₂₂ , F ₂₃ , up to F _NN ) can be used to detect possible changes in materials under such environmental stresses and deformations. The split ring resonator can be printed or applied to the sponge material of the carrier (e.g., the vinyl wrap of the carrier), and/or the combination of resonators and sponge materials can be placed on the entire carrier or in relation to the surface of the carrier part above.

For example, a split ring resonator on a front bumper may experience changes in air pressure while the vehicle is in motion (such as during forward motion, thereby creating a downward force on that part of the vehicle). Under the influence of air pressure, the material constituting the surface may deform slightly and exhibit a change in the resonant frequency of the material in proportion to the degree of change or deformation of the material according to the phenomenon described in accordance with Figures 24B1 and 24B2 . Although all split-ring resonators will resonate simultaneously, differences in a split-ring resonator or split-ring resonators can be determined due to pitch changes that can be detected by the stimulus/response comparator. The comparator may be implemented in whole or in part by a speaker/receiver or similar device.

The array or matrix of split ring resonators on the carrier surface 2902 is configured in a manner such that the frequency response of any constituent member of the array does not conflict with an adjacent split ring resonator. One such configuration is shown and described with respect to Figure 30 .

Figure 30 illustrates a configuration 3000 of a split ring resonator in a frequency range according to one embodiment. Optionally, configuration 3000 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, configuration 3000 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, the split ring resonators (shown as F ₁₁ , F ₂₁ , up to F _NN ) can each reside in a frequency interval. Because the surface containing the split-ring resonator undergoes deformation due to deflection, positive or auxiliary deflection may change the physical properties of the split-ring resonator, thereby changing the natural center frequency of the component. The frequency response change of the component is represented by the D symbol in Figure 30 . As shown, this resonant frequency change, even at its maximum value, may not conflict with the adjacent split-ring resonator. Measuring cyclic deflection over time can help detect cyclic stresses (such as buffeting) occurring on the carrier surface. One such example for detecting time-based changes in deflection is shown and described with respect to FIG. 31 .

31 shows a graph 3100 of detection of time-based changes in deflection, as indicated by time-based changes in resonant frequency, according to one embodiment. Optionally, diagram 3100 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, diagram 3100 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, graph 3100 illustrates the detection of time-based deflection changes by continuously measuring the cyclic deflection of a split ring resonator, which allows an analysis of the pressure on a given control surface of the vehicle to be performed. For example, combining the aforementioned techniques of disposing an array of split ring resonators on a control surface carrier with techniques of analyzing the combined returns from individual split ring resonators of the control surface may allow identification of the surface experiencing cyclic stresses (e.g., buffeting ) area. In some cases, physical property changes are indicative of relatively high frequency, dynamically varying property changes (eg, vibrations). Capturing a dynamically acquired series of responses/features and comparing them to a previously acquired series of calibrated responses/features can facilitate dynamic non-destructive testing. The apparent difference between the two sets of characteristics may be related to physical property changes such as periodic deformations (eg, buffeting).

Figure 32 illustrates a feature classification system 3200 that processes signals received by a sensor formed from a carbon-containing tuning resonant material, according to one embodiment. Optionally, feature classification system 3200 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, feature classification system 3200 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

In one embodiment, feature classification system 3200 can be implemented in any physical environment. More specifically, feature classification system 3200 illustrates one example of how to classify signals, such as features. As shown, in operation 3202 , a sonic pulse wave signal of a selected sonic pulse wave frequency is transmitted. The acoustic pulse wave signal generation mechanism and the acoustic pulse wave transmission mechanism can be implemented by any known technology. For example, a transmitter module can generate a selected frequency of 3 GHz and radiate the signal using a horn or multiple horns and multiple receiving antennas. The design and location of the tuned antenna can correspond to any tuned antenna geometry, material and/or location such that the acoustic pulse wave is strong enough to induce (RF) resonance in the proximity sensor. In some embodiments, several tuned antennas are disposed on or in structural members in proximity to corresponding sensors (such as mounted to and/or in any one or more wheel wells or vehicles). Therefore, when adjacent surface sensors are stimulated by acoustic pulse waves, they may resonate with the features. In operation 3204 , the feature may be received and stored in a data set including the received feature 3210 . The sequence of acoustic pulse wave transmission followed by signature reception may be repeated in a loop to capture a set of calibration signals, which may then be stored as calibration points 3212 .

The pulse wave frequency may be changed in iteration decision 3206 (in operation 3208 ). Thus, when operation 3202 is performed in the loop (via decision 3206 ), operation 3204 may receive and then store features 3210 (including first features 3210 ₁ , second features 3210 ₂ , up to the Nth feature 3210 _N ). The number of iterations can be controlled by decision 3206 . When the "no" branch of decision 3206 is taken (such as when no additional pulse waves are to be transmitted in the iterative loop), the received features may be provided (operation 3214 ) to the digital signal processing module. The digital signal processing module classifies the features against a set of calibration points 3212 (operation 3216 ). Calibration points can be configured to correspond to specific pulse wave frequencies. For example, the calibration points 3212 may include a first calibration point 3212 1 that may correspond to a first acoustic pulse wave and a first return characteristic near 3 GHz, and a second calibration point 3212 ₁ that may correspond to a second acoustic pulse wave and a second return characteristic near 2 GHz. Calibration point 3212 ₂ , and so on for any integer value "N" calibration points.

In operation 3220 , the classified signal is sent to the vehicle central processing unit. The classified signals may be relayed by a vehicle central processing unit (such as vehicle central processing unit 116 ) to an upstream repository (such as upstream component 113 ) configured to host and/or run machine learning algorithms . Therefore, a large number of stimuli related to signals, classified signals and signal responses can be captured for subsequent data aggregation and processing. A database of machine learning subsystems (eg, training models) may be formed or trained by providing a set of sensed measurements that are in turn correlated with conditions regarding vehicle performance. Once the database is computationally ready or "trained," the measured deflections (such as air pressure) of specific portions of the wing assembly can be compared to calibration points during vehicle operation, and this comparison results in the frequency The difference in frequency corresponds to a change in deflection, which in turn corresponds to a specific air pressure. Other potential conditions or diagnoses can be determined by machine learning systems. These conditions and/or diagnostics and/or support data can be made available to instruments in the vehicle to complete the feedback loop. In some cases, instruments in the vehicle provide visualization that can be manipulated (such as by a driver or engineer).

Figure 33 shows an illustration 3300 of a split ring resonator disposed in and/or on a drone and/or drone platform, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 3300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 3300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, drone 3302 may include one or more split ring resonators 3304 . In one embodiment, drone 3302 may be used to transport packages 3306 . Of course, it should be understood that drone 3302 may be configured to transport other items (such as cameras, weather sensing instruments, animals, medical supplies, food, cargo, merchandise, payloads, etc.). Additionally, in other embodiments, drone 3302 may be configured for military or tactical purposes (including being configured as an unmanned combat air vehicle). Additionally, as described below, drone 3302 is configured as a manned drone, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), and/or an autonomous aerial vehicle (AAV). In one embodiment, drone 3302 may be capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and/or electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL).

Additionally, a drone landing site 3308 is provided, which may include one or more split ring resonators 3312 . A target location 3310 for aligning the drone 3302 with the drone landing site 3308 is also provided.

In various embodiments, the one or more split ring resonators 3304 may be used to facilitate instant sensing of the physical state of the drone 3302 and/or environmental conditions external to the drone 3302 . Such real-time sensing can occur on a millisecond basis and can be used to detect structural changes within drone 3302 before they become a problem and/or alter the course of drone 3302 to reach an intended destination (such as target location 3310 ). For example, in one embodiment, if the propeller on the drone 3304 experiences material fatigue (and is prone to breakage), a split ring resonator located on the propeller can determine structural changes (based on frequency changes). Additionally, any component of drone 3302 can be monitored such that any structural changes can be detected before their negative effects are observed.

In another embodiment, drone 3302 may initiate takeoff or landing on drone landing field 3308 . Real-time sensing of the status of the drone 3302 (via the one or more split ring resonators 3304 ) may protect the drone 3302 and/or the drone landing site 3308 . In this manner, the one or more split ring resonators 3304 can detect changes before and/or after takeoff. Please note that one or more split ring resonators 3312 on UAV landing field 3308 may additionally be used to sense the status of landing field 3308 and/or the position of UAV 3302 (regardless of whether UAV 3302 has the one or more Split Ring Resonator 3304 ). In addition, when landing, one or more split ring resonators 3304 on the drone 3302 or one or more split ring resonators 3312 on the drone landing site 3308 may be used to instantly detect the situation as it approaches the drone landing site 3308 . Determine the exact location of UAV 3302 . In this manner, one or more split ring resonators 3304 and/or 3312 may be used to achieve precision landing capabilities.

One or more split ring resonators 3312 of UAV landing field 3308 may additionally be used to determine the status of UAV landing field 3308 so that material fatigue and/or component failures may be detected before they are visually apparent.

In another scenario, after landing, the status of drone 3302 may be assessed by receiving health-related data from one or more split ring resonators 3304 . For example, drone 3302 may pass through a drone health system that may broadcast wireless signals. Each of the one or more split ring resonators 3304 can provide a frequency response that can correspond to the structural health of the drone 3302 (in terms of material fatigue and component failure). In this manner, the split ring resonator 3304 may be used to detect the health of the drone 3302 before, during, and after takeoff and/or landing. This health status may be used to alert and/or communicate to the human/user and/or autonomous system.

In this way, an autonomous system for health-checking a fleet of drones could be achieved. When the drone reaches its landing location, it may be inspected and evaluated. If the split ring resonator indicates a structural problem within the drone, the drone can be further inspected (eg, manual inspection, etc.) and/or repaired. If the drone detects no problems, it receives a "healthy" mark and is ready to be dispatched again. In this way, ongoing management of drones can be achieved relative to the health and integrity of the fleet, thereby meeting legal and social constraints on drone use, especially within consumer airspace.

Figure 34 shows an illustration 3400 of a split ring resonator disposed in and/or on an aircraft vehicle according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 3400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 3400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) 3402 may include a split ring resonator located on vehicle body 3404 , structural assembly 3406 , and/or propeller assembly 3408 . Of course, it should be understood that the split ring resonator may be located in and/or on any and/or all components of drone 3404 .

In various embodiments, split ring resonators, such as those located on the aircraft body 3404 , structural assembly 3406 , and/or propeller assembly 3408 , may be used to obtain real-time (to millisecond time granularity) measurements, including but not limited to vibration, strain, dimensional and/or material property changes, pressure and temperature.

For example, regarding vibrations, a split-ring resonator can read vibration frequencies (from the Hz level to the hundreds of KHz level). Additionally, in one embodiment, accelerometers and other non-contact displacement sensors may be used to measure low to high frequency vibrations (e.g., from very low frequencies in the low hertz range (such as in bridge-like structures) to Higher vibrations such as those found in supersonic applications - up to hundreds of kilohertz). Regarding strain, split ring resonators can detect component bending/torsion as well as structural fatigue/failure. With respect to dimensional and/or material property changes, the split ring resonator can determine whether elastomeric components (such as those found, for example, in tires, belts, hoses, etc.) need to be replaced (due to wear and age). Additionally, dimensional and/or material property changes may be used to determine distance to the landing surface (as described above with respect to Figure 33 ). Regarding pressure, split ring resonators can be used to detect air pressure, differential air pressure, and/or cyclic changes in air pressure. In addition, regarding temperature, the split ring resonator can detect the surface temperature and the internal temperature of the component.

Accordingly, split ring resonators found in or on components in the unmanned aerial vehicle 3402 may be used to detect parameter measurements associated with the health status of the unmanned aerial vehicle 3402 . In addition, more than one measurement value can be received simultaneously. For example, each split-ring resonator can provide a frequency response in response to wireless acoustic pulse waves. In one case, such a frequency response can be calibrated to pressure measurements, while in another case, another frequency response can be calibrated to material property changes. Thus, responses from all split-ring resonators may be received, thereby providing simultaneous results of all sensor parameters associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle 3402 .

Figure 35 shows an illustration 3500 of a split ring resonator and landing position sensor disposed in and/or on an aircraft vehicle according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 3500 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 3500 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown in the figure, unmanned aerial vehicle 3502 may be capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL and/or eVTOL). It should be understood that in other embodiments, the unmanned aerial vehicle 3502 may be configured for other takeoff capabilities (eg, conventional takeoff and landing, short takeoff and landing, etc.).

One or more split ring resonators may be found on the unmanned aerial vehicle 3502 , including on the vehicle body 3504 , structural components 3506, and/or landing gear 3508 . Of course, consistent with Figure 34 , the one or more split ring resonators may be located anywhere on the unmanned aerial vehicle 3502 (and in any number) and may be used to provide sensor related information.

As an example, split ring resonators located on UAV 3502 may be distributed over the entire surface. In addition, lightweight antennas can be additionally distributed throughout the unmanned aerial vehicle 3502 . In one embodiment, the split ring resonator and antenna may be redundant (especially for critical components, for safety constraints, etc.). Such split-ring resonators provide instant simultaneous sensing (in milliseconds). Additionally, conditional signatures can be associated with simultaneous feedback responses from split ring resonators. For example, conditional characteristics can be associated with component failures, external conditions (weather, flight modes, etc.), etc. Additionally, the split ring resonator may be arranged to allow triangulation to aid in precise landing (consistent with that described herein with respect to Figure 33 ).

To this end, the split ring resonator may include position sensors 3512 that may be used to calculate landing gear flexure 3510 , surface flexure 3518 , propeller flexure 3514, and/or air pressure 3516 . As emphasized elsewhere, split ring resonators may be used in any capability related to takeoff, flight, landing, management, etc. of UAV 3502 , including but not limited to torsion, tire wear, airspeed, air pressure, vehicle components The bending etc.

In one embodiment, position sensor 3512 may be used to pinpoint the location for a precise landing. Additionally, split ring resonators 3522 located in and/or on the ground 3520 may additionally be used to assist in achieving precise landings.

36A and 36B show two illustrations 3600 of a split ring resonator disposed in and/or on an aircraft according to one embodiment. Optionally, both illustrations 3600 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, the two representations 3600 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, aircraft 3602 includes one or more split ring resonators located in and/or on various locations on aircraft 3602 , including but not limited to engines 3604 (jet, propeller, etc.), wings 3606 , horizontal stabilizers 3608 , fuselage 3610 and/or tires 3612 . It should be understood that any number of split ring resonators may be found on aircraft 3602 , and the purpose of the split ring resonators may vary. For example, the split ring resonator located at the front of the aircraft 3602 can be used to collect external weather conditions (air pressure, temperature, wind speed, etc.), the split ring resonator located on the tire can be used to determine tread life and condition, and/or located in the engine The split ring resonator can be used to ensure safety and avoid material fatigue. In some embodiments, condition signatures may be created and related to known conditions (weather patterns, signs of material fatigue, etc.). Additionally, frequencies from a split ring resonator can be used for more than one conditional signature simultaneously. For example, the split ring resonator can be used to determine tread thickness, and can also be used for static friction measurement, hydroplaning detection, etc.

It should be understood that although a commercial aircraft is shown in both illustrations 3600 , any aircraft (commercial, military, personal, etc.) may be suitable. Additionally, the use of split-ring resonators in aircraft can provide continuous millisecond-level changes before takeoff, continuously during flight, and during landing. Such changes may include changes in structural parameters (e.g., fatigue thresholds, impending component failure, etc.), which in turn may result in alerts to systems and individuals. For example, triggering an alarm can cause an aircraft to avoid an aircraft or land safely before an impending malfunction event occurs.

Figure 37A shows an illustration 3700 of a split ring resonator disposed in and/or on a rocket, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 3700 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 3700 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, spacecraft 3702 may include one or more split ring resonators located throughout spacecraft 3702 , including but not limited to wings 3704 , elevons 3714 , engines 3708 , flight deck 3710 , and/or cargo bays 3708 . It should be understood that any number of split ring resonators may be found in Spacecraft 3702 .

The use of split-ring resonators in spacecraft can provide continuous millisecond-level changes before takeoff, during flight, and during reentry. Such changes may include changes in structural parameters (e.g., fatigue thresholds, impending component failure, etc.), which in turn may result in alerts to systems and individuals. Additionally, spacecraft (often referred to as orbiters) are often attached to rocket boosters. Generally speaking, structural failure of any component on the spacecraft or rocket booster will usually lead to the complete failure of the spacecraft and rocket booster. However, the use of a split-ring resonator will ensure that any structural parameter changes (to a spacecraft or rocket booster) are detected before affecting the spacecraft or rocket booster. In some embodiments, structural parameter changes may cause the spacecraft to separate from the rocket booster to retain one or the other (based on the identified structural parameter change).

Figure 37B shows an illustration 3701 of a split ring resonator disposed in and/or on a rocket and/or landing platform, according to one embodiment. Optionally, drawing 3701 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 3701 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, spacecraft 3709 may be attached to rocket booster 3707 . Split ring resonators may be located and found on each of the spacecraft 3709 and rocket booster 3707 . Additionally, a launch pad for spacecraft 3709 and rocket booster 3707 is shown, including launch platform 3703 , flame pit 3711 , platform structure 3713, and/or launch service structure 3705 . Split ring resonators may be located and found throughout each component of the launch pad shown in 3701 . In this manner, split ring resonators located in and/or on various parts of the launch pad can be used to detect changes in structural parameters (e.g., fatigue thresholds, impending component failure, etc.), which in turn can result in changes to the system and Individuals sound the alarm. For example, a structural failure (in any component) could cause a launch to be aborted. Additionally, structural failure after launch has begun (but before liftoff) could additionally cause the launch to be aborted. Therefore, any structural failure (at any point) could be the basis for aborting the launch and/or taking corrective measures.

In this way, early warning systems can be based on split ring resonators found throughout the launch pad, spacecraft and/or rocket booster and/or any components associated therewith, and real-time data can be obtained to ensure the safe remediation of any detections to change.

In addition, split-ring resonators can be used as low-cost resonant sensors to ensure safety for any type of aerial vehicle. For example, a split ring resonator can be used to detect excessive vibrations in components, detect and monitor microcracks in materials, monitor local temperatures on the surface of non-metallic components (providing instantaneous values and historical/periodic changes), monitor internal temperatures in non-metallic components of local temperature (providing instantaneous values and historical/periodic changes), provides precise positioning accuracy (e.g., for precise landings), and/or can be installed into materials, onto surfaces, and/or under surfaces (such as painted surface).

Figure 38A is a flow diagram 3800 related to reporting feedback from a split ring resonator, according to one embodiment. Optionally, flowchart 3800 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, flowchart 3800 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

Flowchart 3800 relates to an embodiment in which sensor data is received from one or more split ring resonators and one or more actions are taken in response.

As shown, flowchart 3800 begins with receiving sensor data from a calibrated sensor (step 3802 ). Calibrated sensors may include one or more split ring resonators calibrated based on natural resonances. Determine (decision 3804 ) whether the sensor data is within a predetermined range. For example, sensor data may be related to condition characteristics (where known deviations are related to known faults and/or conditions). If the sensor data is within range (or within allowable condition characteristics), the method returns to continuously receiving sensor data (per step 3802 ). Of course, the time interval for receiving sensor data can be predetermined and/or adjusted as needed.

If the sensor data is not within range, flowchart 3800 proceeds to reducing the test interval period (step 3806 ). In one embodiment, step 3806 may be optional. For example, the test interval period may already be nearly continuous (per step 3802 ), in which case there may be no need to reduce the test interval period. In response to (or concurrently with) step 3806 , an alarm may be triggered (step 3808 ), and a report may be generated (step 3810 ).

In some embodiments, alarms and/or reports related to out-of-range sensor data may be used to notify and/or alert humans (e.g., operators, supervisors, etc.), saved to a repository (e.g., storage device, etc.) ), notification and/or reminder organizations (e.g., Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Motor Vehicles, etc.), etc. It is contemplated that such out-of-range sensor data may also be used to trigger automated actions (e.g., AI integration systems, etc.), cause automated settings changes to the vehicle (or the device in which the split ring resonator is located) and/or Take any other automated action (without human intervention).

38B is a flowchart 3812 related to landing an air vehicle and/or drone using a split ring resonator, according to one embodiment. Optionally, flowchart 3812 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, flowchart 3812 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

Flowchart 3812 relates to one embodiment regarding the ability to receive sensor data from one or more split ring resonators (located in the field) to aid in precision landing capabilities. It will be appreciated that a similar process can be created for the use of a split ring resonator located on an aircraft vehicle (rather than relying on on-site sensors).

As shown, flowchart 3812 begins with the aircraft approaching the landing site (step 3814 ). A determination is made as to whether the air vehicle is within a set range (such as a predetermined distance from the landing site) (decision 3816 ). In one embodiment, determining whether the aircraft is within a set range (per decision 3816 ) may rely, at least in part, on a split ring resonator located on the aircraft.

Once the aircraft is within the set range, data can be received from on-site sensors (step 3818 ). Data from such field sensors can be sent to the aircraft so that position adjustments can be implemented (decision 3820 ). When no further changes in position are required, the aircraft may land (step 3822 ). Of course, it should be understood that decision 3820 can occur continuously as the aircraft approaches the landing site, such that adjustments to the aircraft's position can be made on the fly.

In one embodiment, field sensors may be used (per step 3818 ) to triangulate the exact location of the aircraft vehicle. As can be appreciated, flowchart 3812 provides just one example of how a split ring resonator can be used and assist in landing an aircraft vehicle.

Figure 39 shows an illustration 3900 of metamaterials and their associated circuitry in a dielectric matrix according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 3900 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 3900 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

Within the context of this specification, metamaterials may include any material designed to possess physical properties not found in naturally occurring materials.

As shown in SEM image 3902 , metamaterials may be tailored within a dielectric matrix. For example, metamaterials may be selected for frequency-selective properties, including where the metamaterial is innately tuned and constructed in the application. In addition, metamaterials can provide frequency-selective conductivity rather than DC conductivity. Additionally, these metamaterials can conduct electricity and maintain a connection without contact (unlike standard conductive inks/sheets/coatings that must make contact to conduct electricity and maintain a connection).

The arrangement of tuned specialized metals in a dielectric matrix (per SEM image 3902 ) can be shown via lumped circuit 3904 , where a series resistance with minimum impedance at the resonant frequency or a parallel connection with maximum impedance at the resonant frequency can be achieved. resistance. It should be understood that the arrangement of metamaterials can be arranged as series resistors and/or parallel resistors.

In various embodiments, metamaterials in a dielectric matrix may be disposed in a split ring resonator 3906 , which may be represented in a circuit-type configuration 3908 . Such a configuration 3908 may include an inductor associated with the ring, and a capacitor associated with the gap of the split ring resonator. Such configurations should be understood in a manner consistent with Figures 24B1 and 24B2 discussed above.

Using metamaterials as frequency-selective materials allows continued bending without degrading conductance. In addition, frequency tuning allows for increased signal-to-noise ratio for better detection and resolution. In addition, other parameters (temperature, stress strain, etc.) can be measured directly through the stretching, deformation and/or temperature readings of the dielectric substrate.

In this way, metamaterials can be used in and/or on split-ring resonators, which in turn can provide frequency-selective conductivity rather than DC conductivity. In addition, the high-frequency conductivity of metamaterials may allow their use in split-ring resonators.

Figure 40 shows an illustration 4000 of a split ring resonator embedded within an open or closed cell material, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 4000 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 4000 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, a split ring resonator 4006 may be embedded between the first layer 4002 and the second layer 4004 . In various embodiments, the materials of the first layer and/or the second layer may include open-cell or closed-cell (selected or coated) materials. Such materials can have a specific permittivity, which is the mixed permittivity of the material and the air in the pores within the material itself, such that when the air flow compresses, the foam drives the air out and the total permittivity becomes the material (open pores or Dictivity of closed cell foam). Since the permittivity of the material is much higher than that of air, compression of the material will cause the frequency to shift downward.

To illustrate this from an alternative perspective, embedding the split ring resonator 4006 in a foam-based material allows for larger resonant frequencies (compared to the case where the split ring resonator would respond on its own). This larger resonant frequency is due, at least in part, to deformation of the foam-based material, and has a direct and large correlation with the change in permittivity of the foam-based material when deformation occurs.

Additionally, in another embodiment, a split ring resonator can be printed on top of a foam of open or closed cell material, with a ground plane on the back and the foam material between the top and ground plane layers. The distance between the front sensor and the ground plane (with the foam in the middle) can cause a frequency shift (like a capacitor). In this way, the foam material can act as a pressure sensor, and the presence of the foam can be used to shift the resonant frequency up or down. For example, if a foam element is deformed or deflected (pushed in or out), the foam element can be measured based on the change in the split ring resonator.

Thus, as detailed herein, split ring resonators can provide responses to wireless acoustic pulses/chirps/interrogations. Additionally, using a foam-based material to enclose the split ring resonator can amplify the response of the split ring resonator. Likewise, foam-based materials deform more than, for example, semi-rigid materials, which in turn translates into larger permittivity differences (again comparing foam-based materials to semi-rigid materials). In the context of Figure 24B4 , foam-based materials can have a similar type of response (using a y-axis coordinate to measure permittivity rather than frequency). Additionally, in one embodiment, such permittivity may be unipolar or bipolar. For example, under some circumstances (eg, in turbulent flow situations), both positive and negative pressure may exist on the surface. Within the context of this specification, semi-rigid materials refer to stiff materials that are capable of bending. Foam-based materials refer to porous sponge materials. Comparing semi-rigid materials to foam-based materials, foam-based materials are capable of greater compression and deformation (given their sponge form). Therefore, using foam-based materials in conjunction with split ring resonators (as detailed herein) may allow for greater response amplification (which in turn may be relevant to instrumentation that can operate at lower frequencies and power levels).

Therefore, the combination of a split ring resonator with accompanying materials and/or substrates (eg, semi-rigid materials, foam-based materials, concrete, rubber, polymers, etc.) may have an overall effect. In the context of this specification, the overall effect refers to the frequency response of a split ring resonator combined with accompanying materials and/or substrate.

Figure 41 shows an illustration 4100 of a pressure sensor using open or closed cell materials, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 4100 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 4100 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

Functionally, a wave pulse may propagate from an antenna (located on the vehicle 4104 and/or surrounding objects/locations), which may then impinge on an object (such as the unoptimized sensor 4104 ) that has a reflective or real and virtual physical material components that absorb energy. This in turn can produce a form of analog telemetry via wireless communications (in which the transmission of temperature, pressure and/or other measurements can be by reflection or absorption of wave pulses), which in turn can provide remote low-level insights into the real world. Cost parameter sensing.

A real-life test of the vehicle 4102 using sensed data is shown in Figure 42 .

Figure 42 shows a representation 4200 of wind pressure sensing data using open or closed cell materials, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 4200 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 4200 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, diagram 4200 is related to wind pressure sensing data based on a vehicle, such as vehicle 4102 . The wind pressure sensor can be understood in a manner consistent with Figure 40 . Additionally, it should be understood that Figure 42 illustrates a single use case scenario (for wind pressure). For other indicators (temperature, pressure, speed, etc.), similar sensing data can be obtained.

Diagram 4200 shows three use case scenarios: (1) frequency based on the vehicle not moving; (2) frequency based on the vehicle's straight track acceleration; and (3) frequency based on the vehicle decelerating while turning. As can be observed, each use case scenario produces separate and different frequency measurements. As mentioned above, such frequency measurements may be related to condition characteristics. Additionally, the number of stars found on each line indicates the maximum/minimum data points.

Figure 43 shows an illustration 4300 of paths and circuits related to frequency selective conductivity, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 4300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 4300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, representation 4300 includes an image 4301 of a current material 4302 and a specific material 4304 . As can be observed, current materials require DC current based on direct connections that allow current to flow. Such galvanic material may be represented by circuit 4306 . In contrast to such conventional systems, the use of metamaterials 4304 allows conductivity to be achieved via resistive and reactive paths. Such paths may be based on indirect connections (where each path and/or node does not need to be in contact) to conduct electricity. Circuit 4308 represents the use of exotic materials to establish conductivity.

44 shows an illustration 4400 of many industries that may be suitable for use of split ring resonators, according to one embodiment. Optionally, illustration 4400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any preceding and/or subsequent figures and/or descriptions thereof. Of course, however, illustration 4400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

As shown, diagram 4400 includes a variety of exemplary worldwide industry applications where resonant frequency shifts associated with split ring resonators can provide early detection capabilities on hundreds of potential scenarios, thus providing remediation and adjustment possibilities. Ability to identify potential problem areas. Information associated with resonant frequency shifts of split ring resonators can be applied to nearly every industry and market, including but not limited to: utilities, space travel and exploration, agriculture, power generation, manufacturing, vehicle safety, commercial tire power Science, professional sports, forging, construction, molecular analysis and degradation, biomedicine, battery composition, flight and/or aviation, navigation, consumer packaging, bridges and roads, etc. This article details some of these industries (and the applicability of split ring resonators).

In order to be as precise as possible, and to illustrate the potential applicability of the use of split ring resonators (and their associated resonant frequency shifts) to many other industries, additional material is provided below.

As discussed earlier, split ring resonators can be embedded in or printed on other materials (in addition to the concrete barrier of Figure 22A2 and/or the metal barrier of Figure 22A3), which cover an equally wide range of global industries. wide range of applications. In this way, measuring resonant frequency shifts can be performed in almost any application where split ring resonators can be embedded or printed (on a surface, within a material, etc.). Furthermore, split ring resonators can be used not only to determine shifts in resonant frequency, which may be associated with characteristics indicative of physical conditions, but also to control aspects in response to receiving such inputs. For example, a temperature sensor may have a split ring resonator embedded within it such that when a predetermined temperature is reached, an external unit (air conditioner, heater, vent, etc.) may be activated until the ambient temperature reaches the predetermined temperature. In some cases, taking action may depend on a processor that may interpret the data from the resonance frequency shift of the split ring resonator and, in response, initiate an action (e.g., a command to take action to modify environmental conditions, etc.) . In other embodiments, actions may be taken without the use of an external processor. For example, items that must remain within a predetermined range can be transported. In order to determine the temperature integrity of an item while it is being transported, a temperature sensor embedded with a split ring resonator can be attached to the item, and if the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, deformation of the sensor may cause physical manifestations ( Color change, deformation indicators, etc.). Therefore, environmental changes or behaviors may be directly related to the state of the split ring resonator.

In one embodiment, aviation-related applications may include detecting material stress, temperature, or vibration levels that approach or exceed known tolerances as aircraft experience subsonic, transonic, supersonic, and hypersonic speeds. The use of split-ring resonators in and on the surface of the wing (including ailerons, elevators and rudders) can detect air pressure above and below the wing surface, temperature increases and decreases, surface area distortion and even potential material rupture or failure. , thus providing an opportunity to alert pilots and ground personnel to potential hazards to the aircraft before any catastrophic events may occur and provide sufficient time to respond and correct airspeed, lift, flight attitude, payload removal, etc. Additionally, applicable embodiments may include fixed wing structures in combination with wing blades using split ring resonators in and on the blades to measure air pressure above and below the wing surface to determine the wing's optimal performance. optimally extended or retracted, thus providing the opportunity to adjust flight parameters and maximize aircraft performance. In another aeronautical embodiment, the use of split-ring resonators in and on the surface of the wing (including ailerons, elevators, and rudders) can detect the point at which the harmonics or geometry of the wing surface begins to deform and will Smooth air becomes turbulent.

In yet another embodiment, aviation-related applications may include aircraft jet engine turbofan and propeller engine tolerance measurement and the potential hazards of exceeding such tolerances. For example, split ring resonators can be used in nearly every engine component, including casings and cowlings, to provide temperature changes, vibration frequency increases and decreases, material bending or twisting, air intake, fuel intake, combustion, manifolds Pressure, oil pressure, compression and/or exhaust measurement. For example, a split ring resonator on the surface area of an engine propeller can detect and provide analysis of both general measurements (like angular rotational speed, axial and/or centrifugal airflow and torque) and more potentially threatening analytical measurements (like Excessive stress or bending experienced by propeller and fan blades, microscopic stress fractures formed in propeller and fan blades, excessive temperatures, rate and degree of engine lubricating oil viscosity decomposition, etc.), thus alerting pilots that immediate corrective measures may be needed to prevent Imminent or final engine failure and enables maintenance personnel to determine potentially appropriate remedial actions during the maintenance interval.

In yet another embodiment, aviation-related applications may include fixed and detachable (modular) airframe integrity measurement parameters and changes due to internal and external forces during flight and on the ground. Split-ring resonators can be used within and on the fuselage to detect increases and decreases in vibration frequency due to internal and external air pressure, temperature changes, changes in vibration experienced during takeoff (or landing), increases and decreases in altitude, and/or the varying degrees of distortion caused by increases and decreases in airspeed, and provide early warning of possible structural failures in their associated metals and/or composites before a catastrophic event may occur.

In one embodiment, biomedical related applications may include detecting minor changes and/or excessive wear of components in a patient's prosthetic limb. Through the use of split-ring resonators, small (even microscopic) changes in the composition and/or shape of prosthetic components can be detected and addressed early, possibly even before the patient experiences any pain or discomfort. For example, fixed-bearing or mobile-bearing knee prostheses used in knee replacement surgeries may become slightly misaligned or distorted due to stress from weight bearing and/or other environmental effects, thereby causing the recipient to potentially experience pain or discomfort. More specifically, the use of split-ring resonators in conjunction with the contact surfaces of the femoral and/or tibial components of prosthetic knees may reveal subtle differences in pressure and/or stress points and the possible degradation of the polyethylene articular surface associated therewith, Medical personnel are therefore reminded that adjustments, maintenance and/or complete modification may be required to maximize patient comfort and stability.

In another embodiment, biomedical related applications may include detecting possible excursions in position, flow, and/or range of motion of any of dozens or hundreds of medical implants in a postoperative environment . In one example, one or more split ring resonators may be utilized to ensure that the prosthetic heart valve implant does not move or shift out of position during operation and/or does not block and potentially restrict non-oxygenated or oxygenated blood. Free flow into or out of the heart itself, thus causing serious harm or fatal consequences to the patient. If placed on or within the valve implant and adjacent arterial wall, the split-ring resonator can alert the patient and/or medical staff to minor or major abnormalities that require adjustment or modification to restore proper heart valve function. Possibly even before the patient develops any noticeable symptoms.

In yet another embodiment, biomedical related applications may include detecting the effectiveness or need for adjustment of braces designed to improve, restrict, attenuate, and/or support or enhance a patient's range of motion and comfort. The use of split-ring resonators in orthotic applications can help correct or counteract the loss or impairment of otherwise normal gait in patients affected by significant neurological deficits and/or injury or trauma. In one such example, a split ring resonator mounted in and on a carbon fiber and/or other composite ankle and/or foot brace (corresponding to a knee brace with an extended swing assist mechanism) can detect when an acceptable Stresses, pressures, and/or ranges of motion outside parameter values therefore indicate the need for further adjustments to achieve the patient's desired level of foot alignment, knee support, improved balance, enhanced proprioception, and improved gait biomechanics.

In yet another embodiment, personal protective equipment (PPE) related applications may include increasing the effectiveness of such PPE to detect certain compounds and/or viral strains within water droplets that come into contact with materials such as face masks. To give a specific example, because carbonaceous growth-based split ring resonators can be tuned for specific detection-related purposes, such split ring resonators can be injected into an N-95-type mask (or any type of mask). )'s fiber material contains a variety of split-ring resonators that are tuned in different ways to detect specific types of molecular compounds and/or virus strains, thereby enabling wearers and (specifically) medical personnel to quickly identify infectious diseases and /or whether the risk of impending disease is likely to be an immediate threat and appropriate isolation, treatment or remediation options are used to minimize negative effects.

For example, in one embodiment, a mask may be used to detect a specific strain, such as COVID, and the mask (or a specific portion thereof) may at least partially visibly change color when a specific strain is detected. This may indicate that the user of the mask has been infected with a specific bacterial strain. In addition, other virus sensors can be installed in any location (e.g., bus entrance, MRT bus, subway entrance, etc.) so that based on the passing ambient air, if a specific strain is detected, it may change color to indicate A person carrying a specific strain passes by the sensor.

Additional applicability of using split-ring resonators to detect biological materials can be found in U.S. Patent Application No. 17/382,661 titled "METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A GRAPHENE-BASED BIOLOGICAL FIELD-EFFECT TRANSISTOR" filed on July 22, 2021. The contents of this application are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

In the context of airport security, such sensors could be embedded in typical metal detection systems so that when a person is scanned, the air expelled by the person can be analyzed to determine the presence of specific bacterial strains. In one context, low-cost fabric-based sensors can be suspended within metal detectors so that the air as a person passes through it can be automatically analyzed, and if a specific strain of bacteria is detected, the occurrence of a disease on the low-cost fabric Color changes. Such detection can occur even without the need for electronic configuration or components. Alternatively, the sensor may be electronically attached to the processor such that when the air is analyzed, a response (eg, an alarm, notification, etc.) may be issued if a specific strain is detected.

In one embodiment, utility-related applications may include detection of slow and/or sudden onset of faults in high power line conductor structures and/or enclosures/sleeving. For example, a split-ring resonator can detect stress bends or breaks in protective power line insulation and/or housing sleeves that may occur due to dry vegetation (e.g., grass, trees, leaves, etc.) interacting with the power line structure. The close proximity becomes a contributing factor that allows a spark or other direct impact to potentially influence or ignite a wildfire. More specifically, small (or even Microscopic) faults that, if not detected, could leave the main conductor wires dangerously exposed to the elements.

In another embodiment, utility related applications may include measuring liquid and/or gas flow through one or more forms of transportation equipment (pipelines) and measuring shape, temperature, structural integrity that may affect the performance of the transportation system. any changes in properties and stresses (due to internal and/or external pressure). Specifically, split ring resonators can be used to help maintain optimal operating pressures in transfer lines by detecting and alerting operating and maintenance personnel to changes in the composition of the physical structure (cylindrical and otherwise) of the transfer mechanism level, and may detect more microscopic faults in structural materials that, if diagnosed and dealt with at an early stage, would not mature and manifest into catastrophic loss or damage to the entire pipeline conveyance system. As a different example, a split ring resonator can detect overpressure in a conveying section, thereby allowing operations and maintenance personnel the opportunity to make upstream and/or downstream adjustments to keep such pressures within standard operating thresholds and mitigate the risk of additional Excessive stress from servicing, repairing and/or even replacing.

In one embodiment, construction-related applications may include the use of split ring resonators to detect stresses, unforeseen or uncalculated load bearings, and/or other environment-based effects on performance, including but not limited to changes in ambient temperature, humidity index and/or saturation, and relative physical size of raw materials used to provide necessary support, load balancing and stability. For example, split ring resonators positioned along the long axis of support beams and/or joists in the rafters of a roof structure can reveal unforeseen bends in those beams or joists, thus alerting builders and/or occupants The user is aware of the potentially hazardous conditions resulting from bending of the construction method given the weight supported by the structure. In addition, in the case of using structural materials other than natural wood (including but not limited to composite steel, plywood or oriented strand board, etc.), the split ring resonator embedded in the structure of the load-bearing material itself can detect the formation over time. Small defects or faults that may eventually lead to failure of the supporting structure if the severity of the fault exceeds a predetermined threshold value.

In another embodiment, construction-related applications may include detecting composition and structural changes in very high-grade load-bearing steel or pure concrete support columns used in pedestrian and vehicular bridges, elevated railways, parking structures, multi-story housing and commercial structures, etc. More specifically, split-ring resonators integrated as part of the composite material reinforcing the concrete column structure and surface-mounted split-ring resonators capable of detecting compositional changes can be used to detect the initial formation of small defects, and/or during casting. There are then existing minor deficiencies which may require further external support and/or other remedial measures as necessary to maintain structural integrity and continue to provide adequate load bearing in accordance with its design.

In yet another embodiment, construction-related applications may include fire protection and other safety measures to ensure compliance with government standards and regulatory requirements. In this regard, split ring resonators can help detect unlikely situations, such as the unforeseen and unforeseen occurrence of constructed "firewalls" and/or other fire-resistant assembly systems including metal frames and lightweight structural cementitious (SCP) panels. Unobvious changes. Specifically, split ring resonators can detect "small gaps" created in the installation of firewalls or SCPs and alert builders and/or maintenance personnel that these protective measures no longer comply with the aforementioned government regulations, where otherwise random visual Validation measures may not detect this non-compliance.

In one embodiment, marine related applications may include detecting structural integrity and/or any changes in wind pressure exerted on the canvas of a deployed sail as the sail draft opens under wind loads. The use of split ring resonators on the surface of and/or between the multiple layers of fabric that comprise the sail can provide critical real-time information to the crew, indicating potential issues with the integrity of the sail during use. In one specific example, a split-ring resonator is capable of detecting material distortion or failure in and on the spinnaker composite under stresses associated with wind loads during casual and/or racing sailing, thus enabling sailors to more accurately Quickly make necessary adjustments to the attitude of the spinnaker to secure it to the mast, logs and/or stays.

In another embodiment, a sailing-related application may include detecting changes in solid and/or tubular mast compression when the mainsail (or mainsheet) experiences varying degrees of wind loading during normal operation. For example, the use of a split ring resonator attached to the surface of a bendable/flexible mast can help the crew determine whether the optimal level of wind loading on the mainsail has been reached and/or whether adjustments are needed as a result. Additionally, the use of a split ring resonator attached to the rigid mast structure can detect the extent of excessive/unplanned flexing of the mast during operation, potentially indicating excessive wind load forces on the mainsail, which can be diagnosed and appropriately implemented by the crew. Adjust to return to optimal performance. Additionally, the use of split-ring resonators used within and attached to the exterior of solid and/or tubular masts can help mariners detect early signs of stress failures that develop in the mast's material structure, thus allowing mariners to The window for more comprehensive testing, maintenance and even complete replacement when fatigue has exceeded a predetermined "safe" threshold can be more accurately determined.

In yet another embodiment, navigation-related applications may include detecting structural changes and/or anomalies in ship components (especially the hull) due to external forces such as temperature (in and out of the water), anchoring, and Small and large strains during advancement that can affect the structural performance of metal, composite and/or alloy materials. As one example, a split-ring resonator can be used to detect changes or twists in the pontoons of a catamaran, such as when sailing in calm and/or challenging waters. Specifically, boats of multihull design are often used due to their superior speed capabilities and relatively more stability than their monohull counterparts. Comparison between multihulls and monohulls Part of the equation may involve the surface area of the hull that comes into contact with water during operation. The use of split-ring resonators on the hull surface of such vessels can detect temporary changes, anomalies and/or distortions in the hull shape due to changes in water temperature, wake impact, material bending during operation, etc., which may Resulting in increased drag, which may translate into lower achievable speeds than would be possible if optimal hull surface shape were maintained. With this information, the crew can potentially adjust one or more environmental parameters in an effort to return to optimal performance. In one embodiment, such environmental parameters (eg, sail angle, rope length, etc.) may occur automatically (based on an actuator attached to a processor that processes data from the split ring resonator).

In one embodiment, forging related applications may include detecting small anomalies in the consistency/density of forged metals, composites, and/or alloys. The boundary between forged metals, composites and/or alloys can span the two main stages of tool production: applying high levels of heat and casting the ingot, and the actual shaping and fabrication of the final tool from the forged material. A first example may involve using a split ring resonator to help detect very small (even microscopic) deformations and/or anomalies in raw metals, composites, and/or alloys that could potentially affect the second example Examples of finished product quality, strength and reliability. As a second example, the end product of a forging process can benefit from split ring resonators within the metal, composite, and/or alloy raw materials and attached to the exterior of the finished product, as these resonators can help detect possible Accepts changes in surface shape, density and/or consistency outside established parameters. To give a specific example, the use of a split ring resonator during the forging process of the shaft and/or head of a golf club (such as an "iron") can alert manufacturers and designers to slightly inaccurate club head angles or during assembly. The coupling between the golf club's shaft and head may be weaker than expected, or the split-ring resonator may detect a club head shape that is slightly inconsistent with strict design guidelines, requiring reforging or other material adjustments to make the ball Rod meets manufacturing standards.

In one embodiment, power generation related applications may include establishing and maintaining consistent and optimal performance of individual solar cells within large solar panel arrays. For example, a split ring resonator could be integrated into the actual materials of each solar cell during fabrication, allowing detection of when the cell's materials may degrade or operate outside established specifications during normal operation/collection and retention periods. Additionally, a split ring resonator can be used near the solar array (eg, between the cell and the packaging material) to detect whether the performance of the entire solar array is compromised or just one or more individual cells.

In another embodiment, power generation related applications may include detecting environmental conditions related to the structure and operation of hydroelectric dams and/or associated power plants. The use of split ring resonators in dam construction can enable the detection of dam construction materials (including but not limited to various components such as impermeable reinforced concrete, concrete piles, first sealing metal plates, metal connecting plates, second sealing metal changes in the composition of the dam structure (slab and secondary impermeable reinforced concrete) and enables builders, operators and maintenance personnel to analyze real-time information about the current condition of the dam structure, potentially providing early warning of potential failures that might If left unaddressed it could develop into a full-blown catastrophic failure of the dam's primary function. Specifically, constructing the dam by installing split-ring resonators in the raw cement pouring flow that forms the main structure of the dam allows sensors installed in and around the dam to provide information about slight changes in the impermeable reinforced concrete structure, Early warning of distortion and/or deformation, thus giving operations and maintenance personnel the opportunity to remedy or mitigate any potential problems before any real problems surface.

In yet another embodiment, power generation related applications may include continuously monitoring and evaluating the viability and condition of horizontal axis wind turbine supports, blades, and/or energy generators. Split ring resonators can be used to detect changes in fan blade durability, wear and attitude, shape, strength, and vertical support durability, and/or standard operation of the turbine itself. To give a specific example, split ring resonators placed on the blades of a horizontal axis wind turbine device and the hub to which the blades are attached can provide protection for each blade (which, in one embodiment, can be composed of an aluminum-fiberglass hybrid construction) An early indication that the connection to the wheel hub has weakened over time and therefore may require maintenance and even repairs in addition to appropriate remedial measures. Early detection of these types of possible failures saves time and money, as "an ounce of prevention may be worth a pound of cure" and maximizing operating time may be directly related to continued or even increased power generation.

In yet another embodiment, power generation related applications may include detecting and tracking changes in natural gas storage and transmission pipelines. As one of the most expensive (in terms of time, capital expenditure, potential energy loss, and additional maintenance cycles) issues in natural gas storage and transmission, any of a wide range of physical systems involved in transporting natural gas energy Leakage is a problem that can be minimized or mitigated by using split ring resonators deployed in the system. For example, a split ring resonator applied to a physical transmission conduit that carries natural gas from point A to point B can provide early detection of potential leaks by providing operating and maintenance personnel with indications of: potential failures, distortions and/or the anomaly is formed directly within the material of the delivery catheter and/or within any joint or junction where a piece of delivery catheter may be physically attached to one or more additional components. Additionally, being able to detect leaks of predetermined gases (eg, methane, etc.) may have environmental applicability, since environmentally harmful gases can be detected and stopped before they cause significant damage.

In one embodiment, manufacturing-related applications may include displaying information regarding component incorporation and/or final assembly status (conforming or non-conforming) of a given product at the end of the building and assembly process. The use of split ring resonators in the precise locations of the various parts that come together to form a complete machine or other product can detect if and where possible inaccuracies and/or misalignments may exist in the final assembly. . For example, if three parts A, B, and C of the final product are to be assembled according to known tight tolerance guidelines regarding spacing and/or alignment, then other precisely placed split ring resonators (for The presence (or absence) of a split ring that determines whether two parts A and B (or B and C, or A and C, as the case may be) are properly connected to each other without excessive changes in specified clearance or alignment. The resonator can detect where there may be an assembly failure based on proximity measurements between split-ring resonators falling outside acceptable tolerances.

In another embodiment, manufacturing related applications may include detecting any potential faults or errors within equipment via post-production testing. The use of split-ring resonators attached to strategic locations in a newly fabricated supersonic-capable jet engine after-combustion chamber assembly can provide engineers and maintenance personnel with insights into how the assembly performs its function under other real-world conditions. critical information for accuracy. Specifically, attaching a split-ring resonator to a longitudinally movable shroud and variable area exit nozzle that includes an afterburner "thrust shaping" mechanism can be used to determine whether the shroud and nozzle function at an established optimal level by forwarding performed within tolerances to provide important information on the post-production performance of the assembly, thus ensuring proper functionality before the final introduction of the after-combustor assembly into the supersonic jet fighter it will be Perform its intended function.

In one embodiment, agriculture-related applications may include detecting and tracking growth rates in samples of agricultural products to determine whether the varieties are growing at a rate within established criteria (e.g., not growing too slowly, and not growing too much). quick). Because it would be difficult and probably unreasonable to place a split-ring resonator within the actual fibers of the plant specimen itself, split-ring resonators employed at critical external points in the non-edible portions of such agricultural specimens could be used within the plant specimen. The growth rate is detected when probes are made at appropriate time intervals over the span of a typical growth cycle. Additionally, the split ring resonator employed can be used to simply detect and report surface temperature readings within a set polling period by reporting the surface temperature to the polling mechanism each time it is detected, thus allowing growers and plants Scientists obtain information related to the temperature of a given agricultural sample during its growth cycle. Additionally, split ring resonators can also be used to provide critical information about the moisture saturation of the agricultural species to which the split ring resonator is attached. That is, whenever the polling and logging agency looks for responses from one or more split-ring resonators attached to a given set of agricultural samples, someone monitoring the growth process may be able to detect moisture saturation in one or more of the agricultural samples. Whether the degree exhibits measurements outside acceptable parameters (too little or too much) and it may be possible to learn something about the effects of these moisture anomalies. In addition, split-ring resonators may be able to detect whether and how much UV light an agricultural sample may be exposed to under, insufficient, or excessive UV light during the growth cycle. When attached to key external points on the non-edible parts of such agricultural samples, split-ring resonators attached to vegetation within and outside the shaded area can be closely monitored with the help of readings returned during periodic polling by polling and recording agencies. Track each sample's exposure to direct, indirect, or shaded light sources.

In one embodiment, space travel-related applications may include determining whether spacecraft components fit together as designed and remain safe for astronauts and other sensitive lifeforms and/or inanimate payloads on the spacecraft. To give a specific example, a split ring resonator may be used in conjunction with two spacecraft vehicles and/or spacecraft modules that are connected or combined at a point while operating in a zero-gravity environment. The split ring resonator can detect the coupling process by alerting astronauts and/or other monitoring personnel to potentially hazardous conditions based on proximity, air pressure, and temperature reading tolerances that are or are not within acceptable criteria (where the controller is designed to Is articulating the coupling system so that the active half of the coupling system successfully captures the target component, aligning the two and establishing a static/rigid connection) is done accurately and safely.

In another embodiment, space travel related applications may include continuously monitoring and reporting solid rocket propellant integrity during all phases of launch of a space vehicle (before, during, and after). For example, solid rocket propellant (SRB) composites must remain free of cracks/defects because propellant composites containing cracks pose a risk of explosive rupture of the vehicle. If potential failures/cracks/defects are not properly monitored, solid propellant systems may be inadvertently ignited for a number of possible reasons including mechanical shock and static electricity. The possibility of using split-ring resonators in actual composite fuel mixtures and on the surface of solid fuel elements could provide astronauts and ground personnel with a detection medium to receive information on possible malfunctions in the SRB fuel source prior to vehicle launch and subsequent Early warning of potentially damaging failures.

In another embodiment, space travel-related applications may include detecting and tracking the effects of external forces on the frame, body, and components of a rocket-propelled vehicle during launch. Launch-induced extreme heat, vibration, air pressure increases and decreases, and/or torque are just some of the external forces that may have a negative impact on a launch vehicle during an actual launch. Such forces may cause surface shape changes and/or distortions of the launch vehicle, which may have potentially dangerous consequences if not detected early and effectively mitigated. Therefore, the use of split-ring resonators on the surface of and within components of a launch vehicle can help provide information about changing conditions and/or other unknown conditions to astronauts and ground personnel who can then use telemetry to make small specific adjustments. Real-time information on anticipated conditions so that the launch process can continue according to design parameters.

In one embodiment, professional sports equipment related applications may include monitoring and tracking raw data from professional athletes' protective (and non-protective) equipment during games. A striking example involves the use of football helmets in professional football games (and other sports that require the use of helmets), and the helmet must provide adequate protection to the wearer's head to prevent the wearer's head from being damaged during the game. Concussions (or worse) caused by linear acceleration and rotational acceleration caused by various impact types. To give a specific example, a split ring resonator may be mounted on a crown energy attenuating assembly (or "pad") formed from absorbent foam, air, gel, or a combination thereof and integrated into the structure of a player's helmet. In fact, the split ring resonator may be part of the actual material composition of the helmet (eg, of absorbent foam) and be used to detect extreme compression within one or more specific pressure points within the helmet during an impact. Thus, athletic defenders on the sidelines of an ongoing game may receive an immediate "alert" that one or more absorbent foam inserts within a particular player's helmet has just been subjected to a potentially excessive (dangerous) impact. impact, and the players themselves don't even need to alert that person to the potential problem.

In one embodiment, professional sports equipment related applications may include monitoring the integrity of other, perhaps less safety-conscious, equipment required to win a given game for a specific player. To give a specific example, a professional hockey player may be prevented from participating in a game (in the course of a normal game) without a proper hockey stick for maneuvering the puck on the ice during the game. If and when a stick breaks, the player may be required to immediately throw away the broken tool (almost always eventually throwing away the rest of said broken stick as long as the player happens to be on the ice at the time), thus leaving the player Not really effective any time he/she is on the ice during the game. Using a split ring resonator within the structure and on the outside of the graphite hockey stick (and attached to the outside of the natural wood hockey stick) will allow the bench to learn if the integrity of the hockey stick in use is possible before the stick actually breaks. is close to the breaking point, thus allowing the player to replace it with a brand new bat before any such failure. Additionally, another hockey-oriented application could involve snap-on replaceable skates. If a replaceable skate accidentally falls off and/or separates from its shell during a game, the results can be fatal. The use of a split ring resonator on the two coupling elements that form the exchangeable blade connection allows detection of imminent separation based on changes in the proximity of the two split ring resonators, thereby allowing the player and/or substitute to make the necessary adjustments and/or Reconnect to prevent such separation during the game.

In one embodiment, applications related to lubricant (and other critical fluids, including but not limited to fuels, coolants, and other process fluids) viscosity and/or molecular degradation may include molecular-level detection of critical fluids (such as engine oil) during operation. When does decomposition begin in the engine? To give a specific example, microscopic split-ring resonators injected within the actual composition of the liquid can detect conventional engines, for example, by detecting increased levels of foreign matter within the liquid (e.g., carbon deposits from thousands of ignition chamber combustion events) Molecular degradation of fluids during operation thus enables external monitoring components to display reports or issue alarms to alert operating and maintenance personnel of the need for flushing and refreshing when foreign particles beyond potential threshold levels become "part" of the lubricant pool within the engine. Lubricant to extend the service life of said machine. Please note that similar split ring resonator use can be applied to other known engine operating fluids mentioned above, including fuels, coolants, and process fluids such as hydraulic fluids, etc.

In one embodiment, applications related to rechargeable battery composition, charging, and discharging may include instantly detecting when conditions within a rechargeable battery's membrane components (cathode, anode, separator, etc.) change and whether the degree of change is severe. For example, electrodes attached to the outer casing of a rechargeable battery may receive detection from a split ring resonator integrated into the cathode (and/or anode) of a lithium battery during the initial charge, discharge, and recharge phases of battery operation. Test information. The split-ring resonator detects anomalies or inconsistencies in the materials that make up the cathode (and/or anode) membrane and thus alerts operators to potential problems with individual cells or even a group of lithium cells within a larger battery casing. Problems can potentially impact overall performance.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the split ring resonator may be detected by an external source (such as detection of the split ring resonator located on the surface of the carrier). In other cases, detection of the split ring resonator may be prevented by surrounding obstructions (such as when the split ring resonator is submerged in a liquid or embedded within a steel structure such as an engine, etc.). In these cases, data can be collected at the location of the split ring resonator. For example, if a split ring resonator is in a liquid traveling through the device, such a split ring resonator can be detected by microprocessors (also located in the liquid) and data can be recorded during the travel. . In this way, as the liquid leaves the device, data collected during the journey can be provided. In addition, such information may be related to characteristics and conditions associated with the equipment in which the split ring resonator travels. For example, if a split ring resonator is submerged in lubricant, such lubricant can be transported through the engine, and after exiting, data associated with the split ring resonator can have information associated with each split ring resonator as it travels through the engine. A timestamp is associated with each detection, so that a specific location of the split-ring resonator may be associated with a timestamp. In this way, internally detected anomalies can be determined after the lubricant has left the device. Additionally, in another embodiment, data obtained as a result of probing the split ring resonator can be received internally (within the system in which the split ring resonator is embedded) and transmitted externally via a hardwired connection. antenna, which in turn can transmit this data to an external data collection source.

Regarding fleet management, split ring resonators can be used in a variety of contexts. For example, maintaining a fleet of vehicles (e.g., drones, vehicles, trucks, aircraft, etc.) in good working order may be based on individual readings of the split ring resonators in each item. Knowing when an item needs to be taken out of service and repaired is typically based on 1) scheduled time or travel thresholds; or 2) device failure (indicating that it needs repair). Embedding split ring resonators within such fleet items would allow precise management of the fleet, allowing repairs to be performed on the item whenever a change in status is detected by sensors on the item, 3) Regarding fleet management, individual vehicles or components Wear and failure data can be transferred to fleets and parts manufacturers' warehouse and factory ordering systems (CRM) to better synchronize parts in a timely manner before scheduled service, thereby more accurately forecasting needed parts at the manufacturing or warehouse site . In addition, large-scale management (service warehouses, real estate, commercial properties, etc.) may require a lot of time and cost to maintain. The split-ring resonator can be tuned for specific sensitivities, such as detecting when a layer of dust is found on the floor. Such applicability may even apply to research facilities (which operate in clean zones).

In various embodiments, the operation of the split ring resonator can be used for triangulation (or position determination). Additionally, a response from one split ring resonator can in turn cause a response in a second split ring resonator, which can in turn cause another response in a third split ring resonator, and so on. In this way, responses from a single split ring resonator can be sequenced through other split ring resonators as needed. In another embodiment, operation of a split ring resonator may be used to perform triangulation (or position fixation) in areas where GPS data is non-existent, corrupted, or insufficiently accurate for precise navigation and positioning.

In another example, the mattress industry may use split ring resonators to modify the contours of mattresses to match user preferences. For example, a user may want to reduce pressure at a certain point on the mattress (to relieve back pain, etc.). As the user lies on the mattress, split ring resonators (which can be embedded within the mattress, embedded within the foam material, etc.) can indicate pressure points throughout the mattress. A processor associated with the mattress may be used to interpret such data and modify the contours of the mattress (including through mechanical manipulation, expansion/retraction of foam compression, etc.) to achieve desired results (at the specified specified time as indicated). specific pressure at the point). In addition, the doctor can provide a specific set of mattress pressure points (to relieve symptoms), which can be input into the mattress, so that when the user lies on the mattress, the mattress can be adjusted instantly. state to meet the specified pressure point. In addition, as the user changes positions in the bed (from sleeping on the side to sleeping on the back, etc.), the mattress can continuously adjust the contours of the bed to meet predetermined pressure points, regardless of the user's position.

Additionally, in one embodiment, a split ring resonator can be used to detect growth on an object. For example, split ring resonators can be embedded in fibers and composite fibers such that if black yeast grows, for example, on the surface of a wall, such as an inner wall that is not facing outwards, black yeast can be detected on the wall surface. In addition, split ring resonators can be used to detect leaks (such as water leaks in the basement of a house). Therefore, within the context of house maintenance and security, split ring resonators can be used to detect the condition of the house.

Additionally, split ring resonators can be used to detect drug integrity (such as drug spoilage). Additionally, it can be used in sensors to detect physical conditions (presence of gangrene, blood sugar levels in diabetes, etc.).

Additional applicability of the use of resonant frequency shifting of split ring resonators can be seen in U.S. Patent Application No. 17/884,735 titled "BATTERY SAFETY SYSTEM FOR DETECTING ANALYTES" filed on August 10, 2022 and in February 2021 This application is in the context of U.S. Patent Application No. 17/182,006, filed on March 22, titled "ANALYTE SENSING DEVICE," the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

Additionally, split ring resonators can be used for detection and can be placed on individual containers of consumer packaged goods (e.g., laundry detergent, milk, etc.) or consumer RX containers to determine the amount of product remaining in the container, and then this The information is relayed to the patient's medical management system or automated reordering system.

In the foregoing specification, the present disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. Obviously, however, various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, the process flow described above is described with reference to the sequence of process actions. However, the order of many of the process actions described may be changed without affecting the scope or operation of the disclosure. The description and drawings should be considered in an illustrative sense rather than a restrictive sense.

100: Vehicle condition detection system 102: Transceiver antenna 104: Belt sensor 105: Hose sensor 106: Tire sensor 108: Tuned RF resonance component 110: RF signal 112: Return signal 113: Upstream component 114: Transceiver 116: Vehicle central processing unit 118: Vehicle sensor data receiving unit 119: Racing mission control unit 120: Vehicle actuator control unit 122: Actuator 124: Doors, windows, locks 126: Engine controls 128: Navigation/head-up display 129: Suspension controls 130: Wing trim 200: Signal processing system 210: Transmitted RF signal 212: Returned RF signal 214: Transceiver 216: Vehicle central processing unit 250: Environmental change 254: Feature analysis module 260: Surface sensor 270: Embedded sensor 292: 4-layer stacking layer 294: 5-layer stacking layer 300: Feature classification system 310: Feature 312 ₁ : First feature 312 ₂ : Second Feature 312 _N : Nth feature 318: Calibration point 320 ₁ : First calibration point 320 ₂ : Second calibration point 320 _N : Nth calibration point 400: Tire condition parameter 422: Tread service life 426: In the second Control at temperature 428: Control at first temperature 430: Rolling economy at first temperature 432: Rolling economy at second temperature 436: Rolling uniformity 438: Braking uniformity 500: Schematic diagram 550: Composite 554: First Tuning Carbon 556: Second Tuning Carbon 552 ₁ : Reactor 552 ₂ : Reactor 552 ₃ : Reactor 552 ₄ : Reactor 558: Third Tuning Carbon 560: Fourth Tuning Carbon 562 ₁ : Mix 562 ₂ : Mixer 562 ₃ : Mixer 562 ₄ : Mixer 564 ₁ : Main ply and/or tread layer formula 564 ₂ : Main ply and/or tread layer formula 564 ₃ : Main ply and/or Or tread layer formula 564 ₄ : Main ply layer and/or tread layer formula 566: Tire assembly 568 ₁ : Main ply layer and/or tread layer 568 ₂ : Main ply layer and/or tread layer 568 ₃ : Main body ply and/or tread layer 568 ₄ : Main body ply and/or tread layer 600: Example condition features 602: Example condition features 604: First sonic pulse wave 606: Third sonic pulse wave 608: First response 610: Second response 614: Third response 700: Example condition characteristics 702: First response attenuation 800: Schematic diagram 900: Schematic diagram 902: Tread 904: Belt layer 906: Belt layer 908: Belt layer 910: Belt Layer 912: Inner liner 916: Bead 918: Impedance-based spectroscopy wear sensing Printed electronics 920: Body 922: Bead filling area 1000: Schematic 1002: Tire 1004: Printed carbon-based resonator 1010: Roller assembly 1012 :Repository 1014: Anilox roller 1016: Printing plate cylinder 1018: Impression cylinder 1200: Schematic diagram 1212: "Acoustic pulse wave" stimulus-response diagram 1300: Resonance mechanism 1301: Inner surface of tire 1302: Two sheets or juxtaposition of small pieces 1303A: Split ring resonator 1303B: Split ring resonator 1304: Dense region 1305: Circuit configuration 1306: Aggregation mode 1308: Aggregation mode 1310: Aggregation mode 1400: Example temperature sensor 1402: Part of the tire body 1404: Ceramic materials 1406: Split ring resonator 1408: Temperature of tire ply 1410: Conductive layer 1500: Graph 1600: Graph 1700: Graph 1806: Mass particle size distribution 1808: Mass particle size distribution 1810: Mass basis accumulation Particle size distribution 1812: Mass-based particle size distribution 1814: Mass-based cumulative particle size distribution 1816: Mass-based particle size distribution 1818: Number-based cumulative particle size distribution 1820: Mass-based cumulative particle size distribution 1822: Mass-based particle size distribution 1824: Number-based cumulative particle size distribution Particle size distribution 1830: 3D carbon material 1831: Fiber 1832: Fiber 1834: Edge plane 1835: Fiber surface 19A100: Drawing 19A200: Drawing 19B00: Drawing 19B02: Drawing 1902: Concrete pouring flow 1904: Split ring resonator 1904 ₁ :Split ring resonator 1904 ₂ :Split ring resonator 1904 ₃ :Split ring resonator 1906: Concrete 1908: Column or wall 1910: Slab 1912: Vertically oriented concrete structural member 1914: Horizontally oriented concrete structural member 1916: Material Compression 1918: Response changes 1920: Curvature changes in materials 1922: Response changes 2000: Use of split ring resonators on the exterior 2002: Horizontal members 2004: Curved members 2006: Flat structural members 22B00: Roadside barriers 24A00: Sensing buildup 24B300: Graph 24B400: Graph 24C00: Vehicle 2202: Road 2204: Metal Barrier 2206: Concrete Barrier 2208: Internal Split Ring Resonator 2210: Push Rod Barrier 2212: Split Ring Resonator Array 2302: Surface Applied Split Ring Resonator 2402 ₁ : Carbon fiber 2402 ₂ : Carbon fiber 2404 ₁ : Carbon-containing resin 2404 ₂ : Carbon-containing resin 2500: Drawing 2501: Drawing 2502: Vehicle 2503: Split ring resonator 2504: Split ring resonator 2505: Tire interaction 2506: Interaction between road surface and vehicle 2600: Placement of split ring resonator 2602: Vehicle 2604: Split ring resonator 2606: Vehicle interaction 2700: Flow chart 2800: Correlation between measurement frequency and tread thickness 2802: Tire 2804: Model 2900: Part of the vehicle surface 2902: Vehicle surface 3000: Configuration of the split ring resonator 3100: Diagram 3200: Feature classification system 3210: Received features 3210 ₁ : First feature 3210 ₂ : Second Feature 3210 _N : Nth feature 3212: Calibration point 3212 ₁ : First calibration point 3212 ₂ : Second calibration point 3302: UAV 3304: Split ring resonator 3306: Package 3308: UAV landing site 3310: Target location 3312 :Split ring resonator 3400:Illustration of split ring resonator 3402:Unmanned aerial vehicle 3404:Aerial vehicle body 3406:Structural component 3408:Propeller assembly 3500:Illustration 3502:Unmanned aerial vehicle 3504:Aerial vehicle body 3506: Structural components 3508: Landing gear 3510: Landing gear bend 3512: Position sensor 3514: Propeller bend 3516: Air pressure 3518: Surface bend 3520: Ground 3522: Split ring resonator 3600: Drawing 3602: Aircraft 3604: Engine 3606 :wing 3608:horizontal stabilizer 3610:fuselage 3612:tire 3700:illustration 3701:illustration 3702:spacecraft 3703:launch platform 3704:wing 3705:launch service structure 3707:rocket booster 3708:cargo 3709: Spacecraft 3710: Flight deck 3711: Flame pit 3713: Platform structure 3714: Elevator 3900: Drawing 3902: SEM image 3904: Lumped circuit 3906: Split ring resonator 3908: Circuit configuration 4000: Drawing 4002: First layer 4004: Second layer 4006: Split ring resonator 4100: Drawing 4104: Vehicle 4200: Drawing 4300: Drawing 4301: Image 4302: Current material 4304: Metamaterial 4306: Circuit 4308: Circuit 4400 :picture

1 presents an in-situ vehicle control system including various sensors formed from carbonaceous composite materials that are tuned to exhibit Resonance and response to the desired radio frequency (RF) signal. 2 illustrates a signal processing system that analyzes transmitted and/or returned RF signals by frequency-conducting the RF signals with a sensor formed from a carbon-containing tuned RF resonant material, according to one embodiment. shift and/or attenuate. Figure 3 illustrates a feature classification system according to one embodiment. 4 illustrates a series of tire condition parameters sensed from changes in RF resonance of various layers of carbon-containing tuned RF resonance material, according to one embodiment. Figure 5 illustrates a schematic diagram of an apparatus for testing multiple tires by selecting carbon-containing tuned RF resonance materials from separate and independent reactors for incorporation into the body of a single tire assembly, according to one embodiment. The plies are adjusted. 6 and 7 illustrate sets of example conditional characteristics that may be emitted from a new tire formed from a layer of carbon-containing tuned RF resonance material, according to one embodiment. 8 illustrates a top-down schematic diagram of an example split ring resonator (split ring resonator) configuration including two concentric split ring resonators, according to one embodiment. Figure 9 depicts a schematic diagram illustrating a complete tire diagnostic system and apparatus for tire wear sensing via impedance-based spectroscopy, according to one embodiment. 10 and 11 illustrate schematic diagrams related to tire information transmitted via telemetry into a navigation system and equipment for manufacturing printed carbon-based materials, according to one embodiment. 12 illustrates a schematic diagram for digitally encoding a vehicle tire based on a resonance serial number via a tire tread layer and/or tire body ply printed encoding, according to one embodiment. Figure 13 illustrates resonance mechanisms that contribute to the overall phenomenon caused by different proximally present resonator types, according to one embodiment. Figure 14 is an example temperature sensor including one or more currently disclosed split ring resonators, according to one embodiment. 15 is a graph of measured resonance signature signal strength (in decibels dB) versus height of tire tread layer loss (in mm), according to one embodiment. 16 is a graph of measured resonant signature signal strength (in decibels dB) versus the natural resonant frequency of a split ring resonator, illustrating resonant response deflection proportional to tire ply deformation, according to one embodiment. shift. Figure 17 is a graph of signal strength versus chirped signal frequency for split ring resonators that can resonate corresponding to encoded serial numbers, according to one embodiment. 18A - 18Y illustrate a carbonaceous material used as a forming material to produce any currently disclosed resonator (eg, a split ring resonator), according to one embodiment. Figures 19A1 and 19A2 provide illustrations of a split ring resonator or split ring resonators placed in concrete before the concrete is poured into a given structural form, according to one embodiment. Figures 19B1 and 19B2 show illustrations of a column including the split ring resonator or split ring resonators and equations for measuring changes within a structural member, according to one embodiment. Figure 20 shows the use of a split ring resonator on the exterior of a structural member of various shapes that is already in use. Figure 20 also shows an example of possible factors and equations that may be critical in determining the size, orientation, location and application of the split ring resonator or resonators, according to one embodiment. Figure 21 is a flowchart representing a process for implementing a split ring resonator in a given application, according to one embodiment. Figures 22A1-22A3 are presented to illustrate the use of a split ring resonator or a plurality of split ring resonators within a roadside barrier according to one embodiment. Figure 22B illustrates a roadside barrier for use in a racetrack, showing the structural components that make up the roadside barrier in which a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators may be placed, according to one embodiment. Figure 23 shows an illustration of a split ring resonator disposed on the surface of a concrete structure after the concrete has been poured into a given structural form, according to one embodiment. Figure 24A illustrates a sensing buildup including alternating layers of carbonaceous resin and carbon fibers in contact with each other, according to one embodiment. 24B1 and 24B2 illustrate frequency shifting phenomena as demonstrated by a sensing buildup including carbon-containing tuned RF resonant materials, according to one embodiment. Figure 24B3 is a graph illustrating idealized changes in RF resonance as a function of deflection, according to one embodiment. Figure 24B4 is a graph illustrating RF resonance changes for 4-layer and 5-layer build-up layers according to one embodiment. Figure 24C illustrates surface sensor deployment in a carrier area according to one embodiment. Figure 25A provides an illustration of the interaction between a vehicle and a split ring resonator disposed in road asphalt and/or on the road surface, according to one embodiment. Figure 25B provides an illustration of how a split ring resonator disposed in or on a tire may be used to measure tire static friction, according to one embodiment. Figure 26 illustrates the placement of a split ring resonator disposed in road asphalt and/or on the road surface, according to one embodiment. 27 is a flowchart showing a process of determining tire stiction according to one embodiment. Figure 28 shows the correlation between measurement frequency and tread thickness according to one embodiment. Figure 29 shows a portion of a carrier surface in which an array of individually configured split ring resonators is disposed, according to one embodiment. Figure 30 illustrates a configuration of a split ring resonator in a frequency range according to one embodiment. Figure 31 shows a graph of detection of time-based changes in deflection, as indicated by time-based changes in resonant frequency, according to one embodiment. Figure 32 illustrates a feature classification system that processes signals received by a sensor formed from a carbon-containing tuning resonant material, according to one embodiment. Figure 33 shows an illustration of a split ring resonator disposed in and/or on a drone and/or a drone platform, according to one embodiment. Figure 34 shows an illustration of a split ring resonator disposed in and/or on an aircraft vehicle according to one embodiment. Figure 35 shows an illustration of a split ring resonator and a landing position sensor disposed in and/or on an aircraft vehicle according to one embodiment. 36A and 36B show two illustrations of a split ring resonator disposed in and/or on an aircraft according to one embodiment. Figure 37A shows an illustration of a split ring resonator disposed in and/or on a rocket according to one embodiment. Figure 37B shows an illustration of a split ring resonator and landing position sensor disposed in and/or on a rocket and/or landing platform, according to one embodiment. Figure 38A is a flow diagram related to reporting feedback from a split ring resonator, according to one embodiment. 38B is a flowchart related to landing an aerial vehicle and/or a drone using a split ring resonator, according to one embodiment. Figure 39 shows an illustration of metamaterials and their associated circuitry in a dielectric matrix according to one embodiment. Figure 40 shows an illustration of a split ring resonator embedded within an open or closed cell material, according to one embodiment. Figure 41 shows an illustration of a pressure sensor using open or closed cell materials, according to one embodiment. Figure 42 shows an illustration of wind pressure sensing data using open or closed cell materials, according to one embodiment. Figure 43 shows an illustration of paths and circuits related to frequency selective conductivity, according to one embodiment. Figure 44 shows an illustration of many industries that may be suitable for use of split ring resonators, according to one embodiment. The same component symbols and names in different drawings represent the same components.

Claims (30)

A component that includes: At least one split ring resonator (SRR) embedded in a material of the component, wherein the at least one SRR is formed from a composite material. The component of claim 1, wherein the at least one SRR is configured to undergo a resonant frequency shift in response to a change in the material. The component of claim 2, wherein the change includes at least one of deformation, stress or strain of the material. The component of claim 1, wherein the material is an inelastic material or a semi-rigid material. The component of claim 2, wherein the material is a foam-based material. The component of claim 5, wherein the foam-based material amplifies the resonant frequency shift. The assembly of claim 5, wherein a combination of the resonant frequency shift based on the at least one SRR and a frequency response of the foam-based material, the foam-based material combined with the at least one SRR produces an overall frequency effect. (Current modification) The component of claim 1, wherein the composite material includes at least one of the following: a carbonaceous growth, a metal composite, a carbon composite or a metal alloy. (Current modification) For example, the component of request item 8, wherein the component is a land vehicle or an air vehicle, and the air vehicle is one of the following: a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, an electric A vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, a drone, a passenger drone, a commercial aircraft, a military aircraft, or a rocket. The component of claim 2, wherein when the material is in a first state, the resonant frequency shift occurs at a first frequency in response to an electromagnetic pulse, and when the material is in a second state, the resonant frequency shift Shifting occurs at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic pulse. The component of claim 2, wherein the resonant frequency shift is based at least in part on one or more physical properties of the material. The component of claim 2, wherein the first frequency of the resonant frequency shift indicates a first condition of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to an electromagnetic pulse, and the first frequency of the resonant frequency shift The second frequency indicates a second condition of the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic pulse. The component of claim 12, wherein the first frequency is different from the second frequency. The component of claim 3, wherein the resonant frequency shift occurs in response to the deformation of the material. The assembly of claim 14, wherein the at least one SRR is configured to indicate a first state of the deformation of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to an electromagnetic pulse, and is configured to indicate a first state of deformation of the material by A second electromagnetic return signal is generated in response to the electromagnetic pulse to indicate a second state of deformation of the material. The component of claim 1, wherein the at least one SRR includes a resonant portion, wherein the resonant portion is configured to resonate at a first frequency in response to an electromagnetic pulse when a state of the material exceeds a threshold. , and configured to resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic pulse when the state of the material is below the threshold. The component of claim 1, wherein the composite material includes a carbonaceous growth, and the resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth is based at least in part on any one of a dielectric constant and a magnetic permeability of the material. Or both. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one SRR includes a plurality of first carbon particles configured to be based, at least in part, on a concentration of the first carbon particles within the at least one SRR. Levels uniquely resonate in response to an electromagnetic pulse. Such as the component of request item 18, the component further includes: a second SRR configured to be embedded within the material of the component; wherein the second SRR includes a plurality of second carbon particles configured to respond to an electromagnetic pulse based at least in part on a concentration level of the second carbon particles in the second SRR Uniquely resonant. The component of claim 19, wherein each of the first carbon particles and the second carbon particles are chemically bonded to the material. The component of claim 19, wherein the first carbon particles include first aggregates forming a first porous structure, and the second carbon particles include second aggregates forming a second porous structure. The component of claim 1, wherein a resonance amplitude of each of the at least one SRR indicates a degree of wear of the material, and each of the at least one SRR has an attenuation point, wherein The attenuation point of each SRR is associated with a frequency response to an electromagnetic frequency. The component of claim 3, wherein the deformation is reversible. Such as the component of claim 1, wherein the material is concrete or steel. The component of claim 1, wherein the at least one SRR is configured to resonate at one or more corresponding unique frequencies that are indicative of a state of the material at a location adjacent the at least one SRR. The component of claim 25, wherein a first frequency of the one or more corresponding unique frequencies is associated with a calibration characteristic of the material. The assembly of claim 26, wherein the material is concrete, and wherein the calibration characteristic is measured after the concrete is poured, cured and hardened. The component of claim 26, wherein a second characteristic is measured a time after the calibration characteristic is measured. The component of claim 28, wherein the second characteristic is associated with a second frequency. The component of claim 28, wherein the second characteristic indicates at least one of a deformation, a compression change, a bending change, a response change, a fracture, a strain, or a stress.

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