Two-Dimensional Sensor Array for Hidden Structure Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stud finders can only detect a single hidden stud or object at a time, are limited to examining a small region, and are biased towards detecting transitions in one dimension, making it difficult to visualize multiple hidden structures behind obscuring surfaces like walls without extensive user markings and calibration.
Innovation Solution
A system that couples a density sensor with a position/motion sensor to generate characteristic and position signals, which are processed to create a two-dimensional image of the hidden structure, allowing for detection and visualization of multiple objects in various directions and depths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional stud finders use single-point density sensors, then device simplicity is maintained, but the ability to detect multiple hidden structures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-point detection to area imaging by arranging multiple density sensors in a two-dimensional array pattern, enabling simultaneous detection of multiple hidden structures across a broader region rather than sequential single-point measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging region is divided into multiple discrete sensing zones corresponding to individual sensor elements in the array, with each sensor contributing data for a specific portion of the overall image, allowing parallel detection of multiple structures
2Productivity
If conventional devices examine small regions at a time, then device portability is maintained, but productivity decreases due to extensive user markings
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array provides simultaneous multi-point measurement across a two-dimensional area, enabling the device to examine large regions in a single pass without requiring users to make sequential markings or perform multiple scanning passes
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a visual image representation of the hidden structures that directly corresponds to the physical wall area being scanned, allowing users to see the complete structure layout without physical markings
3Measurement precision
If sensors are biased to detect transitions in one dimension, then detection precision for primary targets is improved, but adaptability to detect structures in various orientations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The two-dimensional sensor array enables detection in both horizontal and vertical dimensions simultaneously, allowing the system to identify structural members oriented in any direction without requiring the user to rotate or reposition the device
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system serves multiple detection functions including identifying studs, blocking, wires, and pipes in various orientations and depths within a single inspection pass, eliminating the need for specialized single-function sensors
4Reliability
If conventional devices reduce sensitivity to accommodate strongest sensor return, then reliability is improved, but measurement precision for multiple objects of differing densities deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-element sensor array captures a distribution of sensor returns across different spatial locations and depths, providing sufficient signal variation to distinguish multiple objects with different densities and orientations simultaneously while maintaining reliable detection
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the user to visualize and detect multiple hidden structures in a region of interest with improved sensitivity and accuracy, reducing the need for extensive user markings and calibration, and providing a comprehensive view of the underlying structure.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor generates at least one characteristic signal responsive to at least one structural characteristic of the region of interest
Data Source
AI summary
An inspection apparatus determines information indicative of structure that may be hidden behind an obscuring boundary, such as a wall. A processor collects measurements of properties characterizing the hidden structure and measurements of location of the apparatus. The collected data are mapped to produce an image of intensity in the characteristic measurements. Each intensity value in the image reflects a measure of density, of material type, or of some other specific information by which hidden structure can be discerned. The intensity changes indicating the hidden structure are displayed to a user via color-coded pixels or the like.