Underground asset identification and management system based on ultra-low power consumption dual-mode addressing

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of underground asset management, and discloses an underground asset identification and management system based on ultra-low power consumption dual-mode addressing, which comprises underground identification equipment, a ground handheld host and a cloud server, and is characterized in that the ground handheld host supports a passive searching mode and an active searching mode; the underground identification equipment is arranged in the ground handheld host and performs data interaction with the ground handheld host through an ultra-low power consumption wireless communication protocol, the underground identification equipment has sound alarm and light source indication functions and is used for assisting an operator to quickly position target equipment, and a 4G module is arranged in the ground handheld host and is used for uploading collected data to the cloud server in real time. Therefore, data sharing, remote management and three-dimensional model construction are realized. Through the ultra-low power consumption design, the battery endurance time of the underground identification equipment is prolonged to more than 10 years, the maintenance cost and the replacement frequency are reduced, through the dual-mode addressing design, the requirements of daily inspection and emergency query are considered, and the working efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of underground asset management technology, specifically to an underground asset identification and management system based on ultra-low power dual-mode addressing. Background Technology

[0002] In urban construction and underground asset management, the accurate location and management of underground pipelines, facilities and other assets are crucial. Existing underground asset identification and management systems mainly rely on traditional signage or simple electronic tag technology. While these technologies can provide some information support, they have many shortcomings in practical applications. Existing electronic tagging devices usually adopt a single working mode, which cannot meet the needs of daily inspections and emergency inquiries. Moreover, due to high power consumption and limited battery life, they require frequent battery replacements or charging, which not only increases maintenance costs but also limits the large-scale deployment and long-term use of the equipment.

[0003] Furthermore, existing data management methods are often fragmented and isolated, with a lack of unified integration and correlation between data from different property owners, forming information silos that make it difficult to achieve efficient data sharing and collaborative management. At the same time, the traditional management model based on two-dimensional drawings may have biases in complex construction environments, failing to intuitively reflect the true distribution of underground assets and easily leading to accidents such as pipeline severing during construction, threatening people's lives and property safety and the stability of urban operations. In addition, existing systems lack real-time updates and remote management capabilities, and information obtained on-site cannot be synchronized to the back-end management center in a timely manner, affecting decision-making efficiency and emergency response speed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] (a) Technical problems to be solved To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides an underground asset identification and management system based on ultra-low power dual-mode addressing, which solves the problems of "information silos and impact on decision-making efficiency and emergency response speed" mentioned in the background technology.

[0005] (II) Technical Solution To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: an underground asset identification and management system based on ultra-low power dual-mode addressing, comprising an underground identification device, a ground handheld host, and a cloud server. The ground handheld host supports both passive and active search modes and interacts with the system via an ultra-low power wireless communication protocol. The underground identification device has sound alarm and light source indication functions to assist operators in quickly locating target devices. The ground handheld host has a built-in 4G module for uploading the collected data to the cloud server in real time, thereby enabling data sharing, remote management, and 3D model construction.

[0006] Preferably, the ground handheld host periodically broadcasts its own ID signal with extremely low power consumption in passive search mode. The specific implementation process is as follows: the device is in a deep sleep state most of the time and is only woken up once at fixed intervals. After broadcasting a short signal packet containing its own unique ID, it quickly enters a sleep state again. The broadcast interval is set to 5 seconds or 10 seconds, and the length of the signal packet is optimized to ensure that the energy consumption of each broadcast is minimized. The ground handheld host continuously listens for and receives the signal. When the signal is received, it immediately locks the location of the target device.

[0007] Preferably, in the active search mode, the ground-based handheld host sends a specific wake-up signal, instantly waking up all underground marker devices within the signal range, and sending complete information to the host according to the call command. Specifically, the ground-based handheld host sends a wake-up signal via adjustable-power radio waves, with the signal range set within 10 meters to ensure coverage of the target area while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption. Upon receiving the wake-up signal, the underground marker devices immediately switch from sleep mode to working mode and send their stored complete information to the host, including the device's unique ID code and its corresponding asset information. The advantage of the active search mode is its rapid response and on-demand triggering, making it suitable for emergency queries and pre-construction detection.

[0008] Preferably, the system also includes the functions of sound alarm and light source indicator arrow. When the ground handheld host approaches the target device and successfully locks the signal, the underground marking device emits a sound prompt. The sound frequency changes with the signal strength, and the stronger the signal, the more urgent the prompt sound.

[0009] Preferably, the system employs an ultra-low power wireless communication protocol to ensure minimal energy consumption during communication between the device and the host. This wireless communication protocol is based on narrowband IoT technology, characterized by long transmission distance, strong penetration capability, and extremely low power consumption. Specifically, both the underground identification device and the ground-based handheld host are equipped with dedicated radio frequency modules. These modules support signal transmission and reception in low-power mode and reduce energy loss during data transmission through optimized modulation and demodulation algorithms.

[0010] Preferably, the system achieves real-time data upload and cloud management through the built-in 4G module of the ground handheld host. Specifically, after the underground marker device reads data from the ground handheld host, it uploads the data to the cloud server in real time via the built-in 4G module. The cloud server processes the received data, including real-time updating of pipeline information, constructing a 3D underground model, and supporting remote management functions. The real-time update function is implemented by the cloud server synchronizing the latest pipeline information obtained on-site to the back-end management center and other relevant personnel to ensure information consistency and timeliness. The 3D model construction function is implemented by the cloud server aggregating all point data and combining it with a geographic information system to generate a 3D visualization model, providing underlying data support for smart city construction. The remote management function is implemented by the management center monitoring the working status of the ground handheld host through the cloud server and being able to remotely issue commands or update tasks.

[0011] Preferably, the system also includes preset device modes to meet the needs of different scenarios. Specifically, before deployment, the operating parameters of the device are preset by physical or software means. Physical means include setting parameters using DIP switches, and software means include configuring parameters using dedicated configuration tools. The preset content includes, but is not limited to, the selection of the operating mode, the setting of the broadcast interval, the binding of the unique ID code and its corresponding asset information, and the adjustment of the radio transmission power. For example, the operating mode can be selected as passive priority, active priority, or a hybrid mode; the broadcast interval can be set to 2 seconds, 5 seconds, or 10 seconds; and the radio transmission power can be adjusted according to actual needs to affect the communication distance.

[0012] (III) Beneficial Effects This invention provides an underground asset identification and management system based on ultra-low power dual-mode addressing. It has the following beneficial effects: (1) This invention achieves a battery life of more than 10 years by using the ultra-low power consumption design of the ground handheld host and the narrowband Internet of Things communication protocol. Compared with the shortcomings of existing electronic signage equipment, such as high power consumption and frequent battery replacement, it reduces maintenance frequency and cost, meets the needs of large-scale long-term deployment. At the same time, the equipment uses electronic signal signs to replace traditional physical signs, avoiding the problems of damage and information blurring caused by environmental factors of traditional signs. Combined with the sound alarm and light source indication functions of underground signage equipment, it ensures that construction personnel can quickly and accurately locate targets and reduce construction risks.

[0013] (2) This invention uploads data to the cloud server in real time through the 4G module of the ground handheld host to build a unified data management platform: on the one hand, it realizes the integration and association of underground asset data of different property owners, eliminates information silos, and supports real-time data sharing between the back-end management center and on-site personnel; on the other hand, the cloud server combines with the geographic information system to generate a three-dimensional visualization model, which replaces the traditional two-dimensional drawing management mode, intuitively reflects the real distribution of underground assets, effectively avoids pipeline accidents caused by construction, and ensures the stability of urban operation and the safety of people's lives and property.

[0014] (3) This invention uses a dual-mode passive and active search: the passive mode meets the low-power continuous monitoring needs of daily inspections, while the active mode enables rapid response to emergency queries, taking into account different scenarios. At the same time, it supports preset device parameters through physical DIP switches or software tools, which can be flexibly adjusted according to different application scenarios such as urban main road gas pipelines and nighttime construction. Compared with the poor scenario adaptability of existing systems, it improves the flexibility of system application and emergency response speed, and further optimizes the efficiency of underground asset management. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall system architecture of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the device deployment process of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the data acquisition process of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the signal processing and transmission process of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the system maintenance of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0017] Please see Figure 1 - Figure 5This invention provides an underground asset identification and management system based on ultra-low power dual-mode addressing, including underground identification devices, a ground handheld host, and a cloud server. The underground identification devices, the ground handheld host, and the cloud server interact via an ultra-low power wireless communication module, and the data collected by the ground handheld host is uploaded to the cloud server in real time via a 4G module. The cloud server employs a multi-source data fusion method to integrate asset information, including but not limited to underground identification device data, Geographic Information System (GIS) data, historical operation and maintenance data, and the direction and depth of buried pipelines. The entire system operation process can be divided into the following stages: equipment deployment, data acquisition, signal processing and transmission, cloud management, and 3D model construction. Specifically: Step 1: During the equipment deployment phase, the ground-based handheld host needs to be configured with preset parameters. This configuration includes selecting the operating mode, setting the broadcast interval, binding a unique ID code and its corresponding asset information, and adjusting the radio transmission power. The preset parameter configuration interface supports two configuration methods: a physical DIP switch or a dedicated software tool. For example, in a typical application scenario, if the target area is a gas pipeline beneath a main urban road, the device's operating mode can be set to a priority passive mode via the DIP switch, and the broadcast interval can be set to 10 seconds to maximize battery life. Simultaneously, the software tool binds the device's unique ID code to the specific information of the gas pipeline, such as the pipeline material, burial depth, and the unit to which it belongs. After configuration, the device is buried in a fixed underground location, and relevant information is entered into the platform. This stage ensures that the device can operate efficiently on-site according to the preset parameters, while also facilitating subsequent management and maintenance.

[0018] Step Two: Entering the data acquisition phase. Specifically, the ground-based handheld unit enters the working state according to preset parameters. In passive search mode, the device is in deep sleep most of the time, only being woken up once every 5 or 10 seconds to broadcast a short signal packet containing its unique ID. The length of the signal packet is optimized to ensure minimal power consumption for each broadcast. The ground-based handheld unit continuously listens for and receives the signal. When a signal is received, it immediately locks onto the target device's location. For example, during a routine inspection, the inspector carries the ground-based handheld unit along a street. The unit receives the broadcast signal packet from the underground marker device through its built-in antenna and displays the target device's location information on the screen.

[0019] Furthermore, the underground marker equipment also emits alert sounds via an audible alarm module, with the sound frequency dynamically changing according to signal strength. For example, when the ground-based handheld unit approaches the target device, the alert sound becomes rapid, providing operators with intuitive directional guidance. This method can improve positioning efficiency, and it performs particularly well in complex environments.

[0020] Furthermore, in the active search mode, the ground-based handheld host acts as the caller, transmitting a specific wake-up signal via radio waves with adjustable power. The range of the wake-up signal is set within 10 meters to ensure coverage of the target area while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption. All underground marker devices within the signal range are instantly awakened and switch from deep sleep to working status. Then, the devices send complete stored information to the host according to the call command, including a unique ID code and its corresponding asset information. For example, in an emergency pre-construction reconnaissance, construction workers use the ground-based handheld host to send a wake-up signal to the target area. Upon receiving the signal, the underground marker devices respond immediately, sending the stored gas pipeline information to the host. The host displays the specific burial depth, material, and other key information of the pipeline on the screen, thereby helping construction workers accurately grasp the underground situation and reduce the risk of digging up pipelines. This on-demand triggering method not only improves work efficiency but also ensures construction safety.

[0021] Step 3: The signal processing and transmission stage involves data interaction between the ground handheld host and the cloud server. Specifically, the ground handheld host exchanges data with the underground marker equipment through an ultra-low power wireless communication module, and uploads the collected data to the cloud server in real time through its built-in 4G module. The specific implementation method is as follows: After the underground display device reads data from the ground-based handheld host, it establishes a data upload channel with the cloud server via a 4G module. The cloud server processes the received data, including real-time updates of pipeline information, construction of 3D underground models, and support for remote management functions. For example, during on-site operations, after construction personnel obtain the latest information about a gas pipeline through the ground-based handheld host, the data is immediately synchronized to the cloud server. The back-end management center and other relevant personnel can view the updated pipeline information through the cloud platform, ensuring the consistency and timeliness of the information. In addition, the cloud server also aggregates all point data through the 3D model construction module and generates a 3D visualization model in conjunction with the geographic information system. The 3D visualization model provides underlying data support for smart city construction, realizing a leap from 2D drawings to 3D visualization. The remote management module allows the management center to monitor the working status of the ground-based handheld host through the cloud server and remotely issue instructions or update tasks. For example, the management center can send new inspection tasks to the ground-based handheld host or adjust the equipment's working parameters through the cloud platform.

[0022] Step Four: In the cloud management phase, all uploaded point data are aggregated in the cloud to form a complete digital archive of underground assets. For example, in smart city projects, data from different property owners such as electricity, water, gas, and communications are unified and linked at a single physical location. This crucial step from theoretical data to physical mapping solves the information silo problem in traditional technologies. Through 3D visualization models, relevant departments can intuitively understand the overall layout and interrelationships of underground pipelines, thus providing a scientific basis for urban planning, emergency response, and asset management. In addition, the cloud server also supports the query and analysis of historical data, providing a reference for future decision-making. For example, by analyzing the historical data of underground pipelines in a certain area, potential failure risks can be predicted, and preventive measures can be taken in advance.

[0023] Step 5: Finally, during the system maintenance phase, the ultra-low power design ensures the long-term stable operation of the ground handheld host. Communication between the device and the host utilizes a narrowband wireless communication protocol specifically designed for the Internet of Things (IoT), characterized by long transmission distance, strong penetration capability, and extremely low power consumption. The specific implementation method is as follows: Both the underground signage equipment and the ground handheld host are equipped with dedicated radio frequency modules. These modules support signal transmission and reception in low-power mode and reduce energy loss during data transmission by optimizing modulation and demodulation algorithms. For example, in practical applications, the battery life of the ground handheld host can reach more than 10 years, reducing maintenance costs and replacement frequency. This makes it suitable for large-scale, long-term deployment scenarios, such as the comprehensive coverage of urban underground pipe networks.

[0024] In summary, this invention achieves efficient, secure, and intelligent underground asset identification and management through a series of technological innovations. The coordinated operation of all aspects of the system, from equipment deployment to data acquisition, signal processing and transmission, cloud management, and maintenance, ensures the feasibility and superiority of the solution. For example, in urban underground pipeline network management projects, this system enables precise positioning, real-time data sharing, and 3D model construction, improving work efficiency and security, while providing important support for smart city construction. In addition, this invention is applicable to the municipal pipeline network industry, solving the problem of surface tags being difficult to find over time and maintenance personnel having difficulty obtaining underground information. When searching, construction workers use handheld terminals to locate the equipment. The handheld terminals display the approximate location of the equipment, and when the equipment is within range, an audible and visual alarm is triggered actively or passively and displayed on the handheld terminal.

[0025] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An underground asset identification and management system based on ultra-low power dual mode addressing, characterized in that, include: Ground-based handheld unit, supporting both passive and active search modes; The underground signage equipment is equipped with both audible alarms and light source indicators. Cloud servers are used for data sharing, remote management, and 3D model building. The underground marking device and the ground handheld host interact with each other via an ultra-low power wireless communication protocol. The ground handheld host uploads the collected data to the cloud server in real time via a 4G module.

2. The ultra-low power consumption based dual mode addressing based underground asset identification and management system as claimed in claim 1 wherein: The ground-based handheld unit, in passive search mode, periodically broadcasts its own ID signal with extremely low power consumption, specifically as follows: They spend the vast majority of their time in deep sleep. It is woken up every 5 or 10 seconds, broadcasts a short signal packet containing a unique ID, and then enters sleep mode again.

3. The ultra-low power consumption based dual mode addressing based underground asset identification and management system as claimed in claim 1 wherein: In the active search mode, the ground handheld host sends a specific wake-up signal, and the underground identification devices within the signal range are instantly woken up and send complete information to the host, including the device's unique ID code and corresponding asset information.

4. The ultra-low power consumption based dual mode addressing based underground asset identification and management system as claimed in claim 3 wherein: The power of the wake-up signal is adjustable, and the signal range is set to within 10 meters to cover the target area and avoid unnecessary energy consumption.

5. The ultra-low power consumption based dual mode addressing based underground asset identification and management system as claimed in claim 1 wherein: The ground-based handheld host has a built-in dynamic power adjustment algorithm that dynamically adjusts the transmission power according to the received signal strength, thereby achieving on-demand coverage and energy consumption optimization.

6. The ultra-low power consumption based dual mode addressing based underground asset identification and management system as claimed in claim 1 wherein: In the aforementioned sound alarm function, the frequency of the prompt tone emitted by the underground signage device varies with the signal strength; the stronger the signal, the more urgent the prompt tone, in order to provide intuitive directional guidance.

7. The ultra-low power consumption based dual mode addressing based underground asset identification and management system as claimed in claim 1 wherein: The cloud server employs a multi-source data fusion method to integrate asset information, including but not limited to underground identification equipment data, geographic information system (GIS) data, historical operation and maintenance data, and the direction and depth of buried pipelines, to form a unified digital archive of underground assets.

8. The underground asset identification and management system based on ultra-low power dual-mode addressing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The logic for constructing the 3D model includes: aggregating all point data, combining GIS to generate a 3D visualization model, and providing underlying data support for smart city construction.

9. The underground asset identification and management system based on ultra-low power dual-mode addressing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The ultra-low power wireless communication protocol is based on narrowband IoT technology and features long transmission distance, strong penetration capability, and low power consumption. It also reduces energy loss by optimizing modulation and demodulation algorithms.

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