Concealed Conductor Locator Dual-Frequency Signal Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current locator technologies require operator expertise to select suitable signal frequencies for tracing buried cables and pipes, and existing single-frequency locators are inadequate for general use due to limitations in signal quality and distance coverage.
Innovation Solution
A locator system that simultaneously uses two frequencies, such as 33 kHz and 66 kHz, with a dedicated signal generator and digital signal processing to isolate and process these frequencies, providing robust and accurate location detection without the need for operator adjustments or specialized knowledge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single frequency is used for locating buried conductors, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability to different cable lengths and conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple frequency capabilities into a single locator device. The locator can simultaneously or alternatively operate at different frequencies (e.g., first frequency and second frequency) depending on the detection needs, merging the functionality of multiple single-frequency devices into one unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The locator dynamically selects and switches between different operating frequencies based on the detection conditions. The system can adapt its frequency in real-time during operation, transitioning between frequency bands to optimize performance for different cable lengths, impedances, and environmental conditions.
2Measurement precision
If a higher signal frequency is used to improve signal quality for short cables, then the measurement precision is improved, but the distance coverage deteriorates due to rapid signal dissipation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating frequency parameter dynamically. For short cables with high impedance, the system uses higher frequencies to achieve better signal quality and measurement precision. For longer cables, it switches to lower frequencies that propagate over greater distances, thus adapting the frequency parameter to match the specific detection scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the signal frequency based on real-time detection conditions. The locator can switch between frequency bands during operation to optimize both signal quality for precision and distance coverage, rather than being fixed at a single frequency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frequencies are used to cover all conditions, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and operator training requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locator system performs self-service by automatically selecting and switching between different frequencies based on the detection conditions. The system monitors signal characteristics and autonomously adjusts the operating frequency without requiring manual intervention or operator expertise in frequency selection, thus providing multi-frequency adaptability while maintaining simple operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from signal detection to automatically adjust the operating frequency. By monitoring the quality and characteristics of the detected signals, the locator determines the optimal frequency to use and switches accordingly, enabling adaptability across different conditions without increasing operational complexity.
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 effective location of cables and pipes in various situations with improved signal quality and distance coverage, reducing the need for operator expertise and facilitating user-friendly operation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one magnetic field sensor operable to convert electromagnetic radiation from the conductor into a field strength signal
Data Source
AI summary
A locator for locating a concealed conductor carrying an alternating current having at least first and second frequencies, the alternating current produced by at least one dedicated signal generator. The locator includes at least one magnetic field sensor operable to convert electromagnetic radiation from the conductor into a field strength signal; a digital analog converter configured to generate a digitized signal dependent upon the field strength signals from the magnetic field sensor; a digital signal processor configured to isolate components of the digitized signal resulting from the first frequency and the second frequency; and process the isolated components to generate one or more signals indicative of the proximity of the conductor to the detector; and an output configured to generate an audio and/or visual indication of the proximity of the conductor, wherein the isolated signal components resulting from the first frequency signal and the second frequency signal are contemporaneously processed.