Detection Terminal for Optically Invisible Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting optically invisible networks, such as gas, electricity, or water networks, require access to closed environments and authorization, making them difficult and costly, especially when connection boxes are inside service galleries or manholes.

Innovation Solution

A detection terminal with a protective conductive body that allows direct connection of an electric signal generator, eliminating the need for access to closed environments and authorization, using the conductive properties of the protection part for electromagnetic detection without damaging the network infrastructure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If connection boxes are arranged inside service galleries or manholes, then network security is improved, but access difficulty increases and requires authorization

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork securityVSAvoidaccess difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention moves the connection box from a two-dimensional interior space (inside service galleries or manholes) to a three-dimensional exterior position (above ground level). This dimensional transition allows the connection box to be accessible from the surface while maintaining its protective enclosure, eliminating the need for authorization to access interior spaces while preserving network security through the enclosed design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If connection boxes are placed in public accessible areas, then ease of access is improved, but risk of damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of accessVSAvoidrisk of damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention employs a robust enclosed shell structure that protects the connection box components from environmental factors and unauthorized interference. The enclosure acts as a protective barrier that allows the device to be placed in public accessible areas while preventing damage from weather, accidental contact, or vandalism, thus enabling easy access without increasing damage risk.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Reliability

If authorization procedures are required for detection, then network security is improved, but detection time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork securityVSAvoiddetection time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The invention positions the connection box in a location that is accessible from the beginning of the detection process, eliminating the preliminary step of obtaining authorization to access restricted areas. The connection box is pre-configured in a publicly accessible location, allowing detection operations to commence immediately without time-consuming authorization procedures, while network security is maintained through the enclosed protective design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 easy, rapid, and secure detection of optically invisible networks by injecting an electric signal directly into the terminal's protection part, ensuring reliable localization without damaging the network or requiring prior authorization, and can be placed outside structures like sidewalks or walls for improved safety.

Implementation Method 1

use an electromagnetic detector arranged to pick up an electromagnetic field created by an alternating current flowing in the electrically conductive wire

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field detection: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

injecting an electric signal into propagation means associated with an optically invisible network... using an electromagnetic detector arranged to pick up the electromagnetic field created by the alternating current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field generation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP2909657B1Terminal for detecting an optically invisible network, apparatus including such a detection terminal, and method for detecting an optically invisible network
Publication Date: 2021.11.10 PLYMOUTH FRANCAISE SA
  • EP2909657B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2909657B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2909657B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a detection terminal (2) that comprises a securing portion (4) to be secured in a structure, an electrically conducting protection portion (5) that is rigidly connected to the securing portion (4) and arranged such as to protect the securing portion (4), the protection portion (5) being arranged such as to be accessible from the outside of the structure such as to allow the feeding of an electric signal, and connection means used for connecting propagation means capable of propagating an electric signal along an optically invisible network, the connection means being connected to the protection portion (4) such as to maintain, under usage conditions, an electrical continuity between the protection portion (4) and the propagation means.