Application of acoustic emission positioning technology in the teaching of bolt pulling and debonding experiments
[Objective]Traditional bolt pull-out experiments are essential in civil engineering education,providing essential insights into the performance and reliability of bolt support systems.However,these experiments typically yield only load-displacement curves,which,while useful,fail to offer a comprehensive understanding of the experimental process or the complex nature of the bolt support failure process.To better prepare students for real-world engineering challenges and understand bolt behavior under stress,it is necessary to advance the teaching methodology within civil engineering education.[Methods]This article introduces an improved acoustic emission(AE)localization algorithm incorporating the Geiger method,adapted through the least squares approach to enhance the analysis of bolt support systems.The enhancement of the AE algorithm allows for a more nuanced interpretation of AE signals,providing a clearer understanding of crack distribution and expansion.This new approach is particularly valuable for assessing bolt support performance in civil engineering structures,where early failure detection can prevent catastrophic outcomes.To validate the refined AE localization algorithm,an indoor experiment was conducted using cement mortar as a simulant for bolt pull-out analog specimens.Cement mortar was chosen owing to its homogeneity and environment that closely replicates real-world bolt support conditions.[Results]Students involved in the experiment gain a thorough understanding of AE positioning principles and hands-on experience in its operation.By participating in the design and execution of the experiment and through the analysis of experimental results,students deepen their understanding of the physical phenomena behind anchorage pulling and debonding.The educational process also encompasses practical aspects of sensor arrangement,data acquisition,and result interpretation,essential skills for their future academic and professional pursuits.The active involvement in experimental design,implementation,and analytical reasoning enhances students'research capabilities.Confronting experimental challenges promotes hypothesis generation,strategic planning,and data-driven conclusion drawing,strengthening their investigative acumen and problem-solving skills.This pedagogical approach fosters innovation and broadens the application scope of AE technology in civil engineering.Cooperative learning during the experiment familiarizes students with effective communication and teamwork,underscoring the importance of collective problem solving,invaluable competencies for their careers.Integrating advanced AE positioning technology into the civil engineering curriculum revitalizes traditional pedagogical methods.By facilitating hands-on learning,students gain a profound comprehension of complex theories,setting a precedent for other engineering disciplines.[Conclusions]In summary,the experimental course elucidates the use of AE positioning technology in monitoring bolt debonding,enriching the educational content for civil engineering students and highlighting the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex engineering challenges.This pedagogic case study offers students resources to deepen their knowledge of material behaviors and failure mechanisms while also imparting a solid foundation in anchoring technology principles and applications.