Abstract: A module model pile tool in situ testing of soils. The tool has an upper instrument section, a lower anchor section, and an axial slip joint located between the instrument section and the anchor section. The anchor section may be configured to model either open-end or closed-end piles. In the open-end configuration, a vent and vent valve are provided to vent trapped fluid during the initial stages of installation by remaining open only to a predetermined depth so as to permit formation of an undisturbed soil plug and to close in order to prevent fluids from being vented into the actual soil to be tested. The instrument section includes instrumentation for measuring axial loads, axial accelerations, pore water pressure, and total lateral pressure. Instrumentation for measuring axial displacement are included in the slip joint. The tool is rugged enough to permit installation by pile driving, and the instrumentation may be monitored both during and after installation.

Abstract: A method for measuring the thickness of an ice sheet is disclosed. The resistance of an electric circuit embedded in an ice sheet floating at the surface of a body of water is measured. A relationship between the measured electric resistance and the ice sheet thickness is possible because sea ice has a much larger resistance than sea water and, therefore, acts as an insulator. Thus, the resistance of the circuit is altered by the vertical location of the water's surface on the circuit.

Abstract: A pressure sensing apparatus for measuring ice pressure forces while embedded in an ice pack is disclosed. The pressure sensing apparatus is thin in comparison to its width and length, having a stiffness similar to the average anticipated stiffness of the embedding material. The apparatus includes a housing having a first and second substantially flat plate connected at their outer edges and sensitive to external ice pressure forces. A thin member is supported within the housing between the first and second plate by a plurality of standoffs or ribs which subjected the member to reverse curvature bending upon the application of external pressures to the first and second plates. Wire resistance strain gauges are attached to the thin member to measure the strain of the member when subjected to the bending. In this manner, the pressure against the sensor can be correlated with the strain measurements resulting on the member.