Boring Bit Position Tracking via Accelerometer and Magnetic Sensor Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current non-open cut boring methods struggle to precisely measure the position of underground boring under obstacles like structures without incurring high expenses, as existing systems lack precision and are not applicable in situations with significant obstacles or large-scale operations.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a posture detecting sensor and a three-axis magnetic sensor integrated within the boring bit to measure terrestrial magnetism, inclination, and rotation angles, allowing for precise positioning of the boring bit during underground boring with successive rod additions, while correcting for sensor distortions caused by magnetic materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electromagnetic signal reception method is used to measure boring position, then measurement can be performed in general conditions, but measurement fails when obstacles exist upward from measurement position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromagnetic signal transmission through ground obstacles with a mechanical sensor system (accelerometer and gyroscope) that directly measures physical quantities (acceleration and angular velocity) at the boring bit location. This substitution eliminates the problem of electromagnetic signals being blocked by obstacles, as the sensors directly detect motion parameters without requiring signal propagation through the ground.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces calculation processing as an intermediary between raw sensor measurements and final position determination. By calculating position through integration of acceleration and angular velocity data, the system indirectly determines boring bit location without direct electromagnetic signaling, enabling reliable measurement even when physical obstacles block traditional measurement paths.
2Adaptability or versatility
If accelerometer and gyroscope are used to calculate position, then position can be obtained through calculation, but measurement precision is insufficient for pinpoint boring under structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic measurement by continuously capturing acceleration and angular velocity data during the boring process, then integrating these dynamic parameters over time and distance to calculate position. This dynamic approach allows real-time position tracking that adapts to changing boring conditions, achieving pinpoint precision even when boring directly under structures where static measurement methods fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through continuous measurement and calculation of boring position, where the calculated position information feeds back to guide subsequent boring operations. This closed-loop approach enables real-time correction and adjustment, maintaining high precision throughout the boring process by constantly comparing actual position with target position and making necessary adjustments.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional position measuring method is used, then equipment cost is lower, but measurement precision and reliability under obstacles are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential measurement functions needed for precise position determination by using standalone accelerometer and gyroscope sensors directly at the boring bit, eliminating the need for complex electromagnetic transmission equipment, ground receivers, and elaborate signal processing infrastructure. This extraction of core measurement capabilities achieves high precision with simpler, more cost-effective equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses relatively simple and inexpensive sensor components (accelerometer and gyroscope) that can be integrated into the boring tool, replacing expensive electromagnetic measurement systems. These sensors are designed for specific measurement tasks and can be replaced or recalibrated as needed, providing cost-effective precision measurement without requiring expensive infrastructure.
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 precise and cost-effective measurement of underground boring positions even under obstacles, facilitating non-open cut working without open cuts, and supports large-scale operations by accurately determining the boring bit's position through terrestrial magnetism and gravitational measurements.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the terrestrial magnetism on the ground with the three axis magnetic sensor to obtain the depression angle of the terrestrial magnetism
Implementation Method 2
obtaining an inclination angle of the boring bit from a horizontal plane and a rotation angle around x axis from a value measured with an accelerometer integral with the boring bit
Data Source
AI summary
The rotation angle around x axis, inclination angle and directional angle of a boring bit are obtained from the value measured with an accelerometer (22) and a three axis magnetic sensor integrally provided within the boring bit attached to the top of a rod array for boring. From these obtained values and the length corresponding to a rod, the amount of varied position according to boring by a length corresponding to a rod is obtained for each directional component. Further, the position of boring corresponding to boring in plural times with successive addition of rods is obtained through accumulating the amount of varied position for each directional component in respect of boring in plural times.