Analysing load on a load bearing member by measuring the effect stress has on one or more signals emitted through a component of an attached securing assembly

摘要

A method of analysing a load bearing member 12 in which said member 12 is secured to a securing assembly 14. A load applied to the member in a direction indicated by A causes stress within the assembly 14. A signal is transmitted through a component of the assembly 24 in a direction which is transverse to the direction of the load applied to the member. Measurement of an effect on the signal transmitted through the component 24 is used to determine the load applied to the member. The signal may comprise a sound or an ultrasonic wave, or possibly a plurality of sound or ultrasonic waves. Measurement of the effect on the signal may concern the time for the signal to transmit through the component. Signal transmission may comprise provision of an emission point on the component and emitting the signal from the emission point to a face of the component. The component may extend transverse to the member and stressing the component may cause component to deform. When the component is stressed, a first signal may be transmitted through a region of the component in tension and a second signal may be transmitted through a region in compression.