Bucket-Mounted GPR Detection for Real-Time Utility Strike Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting underground utilities during construction are ineffective, particularly in built-up areas, with GPR requiring pre-site surveys and expert interpretation, and other methods being unreliable or impractical.
Innovation Solution
A GPR system integrated with a digging machine, featuring a GPR unit on the bucket, data processor, and post-processing unit, which processes GPR data in real-time to detect hazards during digging, using SFCW and SFICW pulse techniques, and includes a Kalman filter for horizontal location estimation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional GPR is used with pre-site survey and offline map preparation, then utility detection capability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring expert interpretation and harmonisation of maps with reference markers
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs utility detection, location mapping, and hazard identification without requiring expert interpretation. The GPR unit mounted on the digging machine autonomously scans underground utilities and the data processor automatically generates location information, eliminating the need for manual map harmonisation and expert analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of pre-site surveys and map harmonisation with automated electronic GPR scanning and digital data processing. The system uses electronic sensors and computer algorithms to detect and map utilities rather than manual surveying methods
2Productivity
If GPR antenna is mounted on bucket teeth pointing forward as in GB 2486375, then detection during digging is enabled, but detection effectiveness deteriorates because the beam direction is not aligned with the digging direction
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the GPR antenna orientation to point downward perpendicular to the ground surface, aligned with the digging direction. The antenna is mounted on the ground-facing base of the bucket rather than on the teeth, allowing it to maintain optimal orientation regardless of bucket rotation or digging angle
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mounting position from the horizontal bucket teeth to the vertical ground-facing base of the bucket. This dimensional change in mounting location allows the antenna beam to be directed downward into the ground rather than forward, improving alignment with the digging direction and utility detection effectiveness
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detection methods (acoustic, magnetometer, active methods) are used, then detection coverage is improved, but reliability deteriorates because none of these methods are effective or reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) as a universal detection method that can detect all types of underground utilities including metallic pipes, plastic conduits, ceramic pipes, and fibre optic cables. The GPR system provides multi-functional detection capability across different material types and utility configurations, replacing the need for multiple specialized detection methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from method-specific measurements (acoustic signals, magnetic field strength, electrical conductivity) to electromagnetic wave reflection and refraction characteristics. By using GPR's ability to detect dielectric contrasts and material discontinuities, the system achieves reliable detection across diverse utility types without being limited by the constraints of individual detection methods
4Measurement precision
If GPR requires expert interpretation of images and pre-site survey, then detection accuracy is improved, but loss of time increases due to offline map preparation and harmonisation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic real-time detection, processing, and hazard identification without requiring expert interpretation or pre-site survey. The GPR unit continuously scans underground utilities during digging operations and the data processor automatically generates location information and alerts, eliminating time-consuming manual processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous utility detection during the entire digging operation rather than requiring separate pre-site survey phases. The GPR system operates continuously as the bucket moves through the ground, providing real-time detection and alerting, thereby eliminating idle time for map preparation and harmonisation
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 accurate, real-time detection of underground utilities, reducing the need for pre-site surveys and expert interpretation, and providing alerts to prevent utility strikes, suitable for various soil conditions and reducing operator training requirements.
Implementation Method 1
GPR (ground penetrating radar) system... The GPR unit is mounted on the bucket and includes at least one GPR antenna... The data processor controls the at least one GPR antenna and processes the output of the at least one GPR antenna to detect a presence of a hazard
Implementation Method 2
The data processor includes a Kalman filter for horizontal location estimation
Data Source
AI summary
A GPR (ground penetrating radar) system includes a digging machine having a bucket, a GPR unit and a post-processing unit. The digging machine constrains motion of the bucket horizontally when sequentially removing each of a plurality of layers of soil in a trench. The GPR unit is mounted on the bucket and includes at least one GPR antenna and a data processor. Both the at least one antenna and the data processor are mounted within the bucket. The data processor controls the at least one GPR antenna and processes the output of the at least one GPR antenna to detect a presence of a hazard during removal of one of the plurality of layers of soil. The post-processing unit is installed in a cabin of the digging machine and provides an alert when the data processor detects the hazard during the removal of the one layer.