Electromagnetic Marker Circuit for Long-Range Buried Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional marker devices for buried objects suffer from performance issues such as limited signal range, interference, and difficulty in detection due to lack of control over received electromagnetic energy, which affects their resonance signal amplitude and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The enhanced marker device includes a loop-shaped antenna element with multiple coil turns and a protective housing made of low dielectric material, coupled to an electronic circuit that generates an output signal of a different frequency, providing extended signal reception and transmission range up to 2 meters or more.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional passive marker devices are used, then device complexity is reduced, but signal range is limited and detection accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The marker device generates its own electromagnetic signal through an electronic circuit powered by a battery, eliminating the need for external signal generation. The antenna element transmits signals autonomously to communicate with the receiver, enabling active self-service operation that improves detection accuracy without requiring complex external systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters by using multiple coil turns in the antenna element to increase signal transmission distance. The electronic circuit processes signals at different frequencies and the battery provides continuous power, transforming the marker from a passive resonance device to an active communication device with extended range
2Length of stationary object
If marker devices lack control over received electromagnetic energy, then device complexity is reduced, but signal amplitude decays and range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic circuit receives electromagnetic energy through the antenna element, processes it through feedback mechanisms, and generates output signals at different frequencies. This feedback loop enables the device to control and amplify the received energy, extending signal range while managing the complexity through integrated circuit design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control through the electronic circuit that can modulate signal frequency and amplitude based on received energy levels. The battery-powered system provides continuous dynamic operation, allowing the marker to adapt its signal characteristics to maintain optimal transmission range
3Ease of manufacture
If resonance frequency is used for marker devices, then ease of manufacture is improved, but backscattering interference increases and detection becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using resonance frequency where the marker passively absorbs energy at a specific frequency, the patent inverts the approach by using a battery-powered active system that generates signals at controlled frequencies. The antenna element actively transmits rather than passively resonates, eliminating backscattering interference while maintaining ease of manufacture through standard electronic components
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic circuit acts as an intermediary between the antenna element and the received electromagnetic energy. It processes the raw received signals, filters out interference, and generates clean output signals at different frequencies, mediating the interaction between the marker and external fields to eliminate harmful backscattering effects
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
The solution enables effective detection and location of buried objects by extending the signal range and reducing interference, allowing accurate determination of the object's location using an above-ground receiver.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna element having a plurality of coil turns or windings electrically coupled to an electronic circuit and arranged to provide, in conjunction with the electronic circuit, an extended signal reception and transmission range
Implementation Method 2
protective housing made of low dielectric material
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to electromagnetic marker devices for use in locating hidden or buried objects, the marker devices including a tubular housing with a plurality of conductive windings therein and circuitry to receive an excitation signal at a first frequency and generate an output transmission signal at a second frequency different from the first frequency.