Abstract: Method and apparatus detect structural damage of structures using Acoustic Emission (AE) sensors. Using our method, structures can be monitored in real-time to predict damage level. This damage level assessment can be used to plan repairs and restorations of structures. Application can be used with concrete, and also applied to other materials such as composites. Predictive AE models may be tuned for determining structural damage zones, with the method extendable into any number of zones. An algorithm may be used in conjunction with decision tree filtering to use AE to predict structural damage zones, with the system able to perform analysis in real-time.

Abstract: A connector for joining concrete structures such as double tee beams to one another. The connector includes a curved bolt that is formed with a shape memory alloy. Through utilization of the bolt, a joint can be post-tensioned following assembly through application of heat to the joint. Post-tensioning can be reapplied following loosening of the joint through application of heat. When considering a super elastic shape memory alloy, the bolt can be a smart bolt that can self-correct following deformation due to excessive load.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for determination of rolling resistance from a sensor or sensors in a tire or tires for application in smart cars to provide feedback to interested parties, such as Departments of Transportation or tire manufacturers.

Abstract: The disclosure deals with a system and method for building teams in response to a teaming opportunity. In one exemplary embodiment disclosed herewith, a system and method for building teams for Request for Proposals (RFPs) is described where potential team participants are researchers at one or more institutions. A computer-based method and computer system, given RFPs from funding agencies like NSF, DOE and NASA, recommends a team of experts from various faculties and departments of the organization, like a university, that would best fit the needs of the RFP and have a high chance of putting a successful proposal together. The system generates teams that may match the requirements of an RFP. In addition, the system optimizes the list of teams to maximize winning success and to reduce redundancy. The system input includes RFPs and the researchers' public information. The system output is a list of proposed teams, each team with two or more members.

Abstract: Structural health monitoring (SHM)/nondestructive evaluation (NDE) exists as a tool in conjunction with manufactured pieces. Presently disclosed subject matter integrates automated video with a structural health monitoring system. In conjunction with bridge monitoring, integration of such two systems automates determination of the effect or correlation of vehicular loading on SHM data from a subject bridge. Such correlations help to understand the sources of structural health monitoring data, particularly acoustic emission data, in bridges and other structures, such as dams and nuclear plants. Automation of the evaluation of bridges and other structures increases accuracy and minimizes risk to workers and the public. Assessing the structural condition of bridges and other structures as presently disclosed also facilitates automated asset management of transportation systems, such as by state departments of transportation and other bridge/structural owners.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods based on acoustic emission (AE) technology to monitor a concrete structure for a short interval and, based on signals acquired, estimate Alkali-silica reaction (ASR) progression status in the structure remotely and efficiently without halting any serviceability and operational activities of the structure, knowing the ASR progression status of the structure helps determine rehabilitation and future structural safety and serviceability of the structure.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for determination of rolling resistance from a sensor or sensors in a tire or tires for application in smart cars to provide feedback to interested parties, such as Departments of Transportation or tire manufacturers.

Abstract: Described herein are acoustic emission damage classification methods and systems employing intensity analysis to monitor the state of rotating machinery to classify the damage occurring to a mechanical object.

Abstract: A connector for joining concrete structures such as double tee beams to one another. The connector includes a curved bolt that is formed with a shape memory alloy. Through utilization of the bolt, a joint can be post-tensioned following assembly through application of heat to the joint. Post-tensioning can be reapplied following loosening of the joint through application of heat. When considering a super elastic shape memory alloy, the bolt can be a smart bolt that can self-correct following deformation due to excessive load.

Abstract: Structural health monitoring (SHM)/nondestructive evaluation (NDE) exists as a tool in conjunction with manufactured pieces. Presently disclosed subject matter integrates automated video with a structural health monitoring system. In conjunction with bridge monitoring, integration of such two systems automates determination of the effect or correlation of vehicular loading on SHM data from a subject bridge. Such correlations help to understand the sources of structural health monitoring data, particularly acoustic emission data, in bridges and other structures, such as dams and nuclear plants. Automation of the evaluation of bridges and other structures increases accuracy and minimizes risk to workers and the public. Assessing the structural condition of bridges and other structures as presently disclosed also facilitates automated asset management of transportation systems, such as by state departments of transportation and other bridge/structural owners.

Abstract: Structural health monitoring (SHM)/nondestructive evaluation (NDE) exists as a tool in conjunction with manufactured pieces. Presently disclosed subject matter integrates automated video with a structural health monitoring system. In conjunction with bridge monitoring, integration of such two systems automates determination of the effect or correlation of vehicular loading on SHM data from a subject bridge. Such correlations help to understand the sources of structural health monitoring data, particularly acoustic emission data, in bridges and other structures, such as dams and nuclear plants. Automation of the evaluation of bridges and other structures increases accuracy and minimizes risk to workers and the public. Assessing the structural condition of bridges and other structures as presently disclosed also facilitates automated asset management of transportation systems, such as by state departments of transportation and other bridge/structural owners.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for determination of rolling resistance from a sensor or sensors in a tire or tires for application in smart cars to provide feedback to interested parties, such as Departments of Transportation or tire manufacturers.

Abstract: Disclosed are composite structure health monitoring (SHM) systems that incorporate aspects of both a passive SHM system and an active SHM system. Systems provide a route for continuous monitoring to recognize potentially damaging events as well as to determine the location and intensity of damage in those instances in which the event does cause damage to the structure. Systems can provide improved monitoring with a low space and weight requirement, for instance when utilized for SHM of aircraft.

Abstract: Structural health monitoring (SHM)/nondestructive evaluation (NDE) exists as a tool in conjunction with manufactured pieces. Presently disclosed subject matter integrates automated video with a structural health monitoring system. In conjunction with bridge monitoring, integration of such two systems automates determination of the effect or correlation of vehicular loading on SHM data from a subject bridge. Such correlations help to understand the sources of structural health monitoring data, particularly acoustic emission data, in bridges and other structures, such as dams and nuclear plants. Automation of the evaluation of bridges and other structures increases accuracy and minimizes risk to workers and the public. Assessing the structural condition of bridges and other structures as presently disclosed also facilitates automated asset management of transportation systems, such as by state departments of transportation and other bridge/structural owners.

Abstract: A connector for joining concrete structures such as double tee beams to one another. The connector includes a curved bolt that is formed with a shape memory alloy. Through utilization of the bolt, a joint can be post-tensioned following assembly through application of heat to the joint. Post-tensioning can be re-applied following loosening of the joint through application of heat. When considering a super elastic shape memory alloy, the bolt can be a smart bolt that can self-correct following deformation due to excessive load.

Abstract: Disclosed are composite structure health monitoring (SHM) systems that incorporate aspects of both a passive SHM system and an active SHM system. Systems provide a route for continuous monitoring to recognize potentially damaging events as well as to determine the location and intensity of damage in those instances in which the event does cause damage to the structure. Systems can provide improved monitoring with a low space and weight requirement, for instance when utilized for SHM of aircraft.

Abstract: Methods are generally provided for forming a polymer-cement composite. In one embodiment of the method, a plurality of dopamine monomers is dispersed in a buffer solution. Polymerization of the dopamine monomers can then be initiated, and a cement-sand mixture can be added to the buffer solution to form a composite mixture. Finally, the composite mixture can be cured to form a polymer-cement composite. Polymer-cement composites are also generally provided that, in one embodiment, include cement, sand, and poly(dopamine), with the polymer-cement composite having a compressive strength of 8000 psi.

Abstract: Methods are generally provided for forming a polymer-cement composite. In one embodiment of the method, a plurality of dopamine monomers is dispersed in a buffer solution. Polymerization of the dopamine monomers can then be initiated, and a cement-sand mixture can be added to the buffer solution to form a composite mixture. Finally, the composite mixture can be cured to form a polymer-cement composite. Polymer-cement composites are also generally provided that, in one embodiment, include cement, sand, and poly(dopamine), with the polymer-cement composite having a compressive strength of 8000 psi.