Abstract: This invention defines improvements in dynamic force measuring instruments, which allow for the acquisition of data, such as depth driven and force applied, from the driven pile with the sensor being designed to make it easier to place the sensor with respect to the pile to be driven. In particular, the invention comprehends the use of a foil sensor, which is covered with insulation. An inductive belt sensor can be wrapped around the pile anytime during the driving of the pile. The signal from the belt sensor in response to stress in the pile from the pile driver is fed to a computer in the same manner as for the coil. The belt consists of a metallic strip of aluminum or copper or other conductive metallic material covered on both sides and ends by insulation material. At one end of the metallic strip an electric cable is connected which leads through a connector to a computer. The metallic strip picks up the magnetostriction signal, which is proportional to the resistance the pile encounters during driving.

Abstract: An attenuation circuit for a pile driving force measurement device is disclosed. The attenuation circuit allows for measurements to be made of the force being applied to a driven pile at a reduced voltage compatible with a voltage sensitive measurement device, such as a personal computer. The forces measured create measurable electrical impulses via magnetostriction. The attenuation circuit conditions the measured impulses so that no separate electrical power circuit or battery is required to power the sensor. At the same time the attenuation circuit protects the measurement device from voltages which might be overly high and damage the equipment.