Obscured Feature Detector Multiplexer Interference Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing obscured feature detectors face interference between live wire sensing and obscured feature sensing, leading to inaccurate detection of structural elements due to the separate circuitry and sensor pads used for each function, which worsens with higher accuracy detectors.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves interleaving the sensing of obscured features and live wires using a multiplexer to couple the live wire sensing element to either sensing circuitry or a reference, allowing it to float while being sensed, and processing the signal to differentiate between 50 Hz and 60 Hz frequencies, thereby reducing interference and enhancing accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate circuitry and sensor pads are used for live wire sensing and obscured feature sensing, then both functions can be performed simultaneously, but detection accuracy of obscured features deteriorates due to electrical field interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensing system into distinct functional modules: a live wire sensing element for detecting electrical fields and an obscured feature sensing element for detecting structural elements. By segmenting the sensing functions and using separate circuitry for each, the patent eliminates electrical field interference between the two sensing modes, thereby maintaining high detection accuracy for obscured features while preserving dual sensing capability.
2Device complexity
If a single sensing element is used for both live wire and obscured feature detection, then device complexity is reduced, but sensing accuracy deteriorates due to mutual interference between sensing modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing elements (live wire sensing element and obscured feature sensing element) and their respective circuitry into a single integrated device housing. This merging approach allows the device to perform both live wire detection and obscured feature detection functions simultaneously without requiring separate standalone devices, while maintaining sensing accuracy through proper electrical isolation and interference mitigation techniques.
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
This approach achieves higher accuracy in detecting obscured features while maintaining the capability to warn users of live wires, with improved responsiveness and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
These detectors sense changes in capacitance on the examined surface that result from the presence of features positioned behind, beneath or within the surface
Implementation Method 2
the live wire sensing element's voltage level oscillates in the presence of live electrical wire
Implementation Method 3
sensing (e.g., detecting an electrical field formed between the live wire sensing element and a live electrical wire)
Data Source
AI summary
Obscured feature detectors are disclosed that have both the capability to sense the location of obscured structural features and the ability to warn a user of obscured live electrical wires in the vicinity. Apparatus, devices, and methods to detect a presence of hidden or obscured objects or features behind opaque, solid surfaces are disclosed. Beams, studs and columns behind walls and joists beneath floors can be located. Also, a presence of an electrical field strength associated with live wires behind walls and beneath floors can be detected. The location of obscured features and the electric field strength can be displayed simultaneously.