Electronic Locate Mark Documentation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for documenting underground facility locate marks are prone to human error and are costly due to the use of paper sketches, which are not easily searchable for data.
Innovation Solution
The development of a system and method for creating a searchable electronic record of locate operations, utilizing input images of geographic areas where marks are applied, with digital representations of locate marks and associated information, allowing for accurate and efficient documentation and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If paper sketches are used to document locate marks, then documentation can be created with simple tools, but the documentation is not easily searchable and is prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by creating digital representations (photographs or videos) of physical locate marks and associating them with digital data structures. This allows the information to be copied into an electronic format that is searchable and storable in databases, eliminating the loss of information inherent in paper sketches while maintaining relatively simple documentation procedures through the use of standard imaging devices.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual documentation methods are used, then equipment costs are low, but documentation accuracy is reduced due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by capturing images of locate marks and automatically associating them with corresponding data through digital processing. The system provides feedback loops where the digital representation can be verified against the physical mark, and data can be cross-checked for accuracy. This reduces human error in documentation while maintaining productivity through automated data capture and storage processes.
3Measurement precision
If detailed documentation of locate operations is maintained, then verification accuracy is improved, but data retrieval becomes more difficult with paper-based systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of manual paper-based documentation with an electronic digital system. Locate mark information is captured through digital imaging and stored in electronic databases with associated metadata including precise location data, timestamps, and descriptive information. This substitution enables rapid electronic retrieval of detailed locate information through search queries, eliminating the time-consuming manual search through paper records while maintaining high precision in location documentation.
Data Source
AI summary
A technician performs a locate operation of an underground utility in a dig area of proposed excavation by applying one or more physical colored markers (e.g., paint, flags, other colored markers) to ground, pavement or other surface to indicate a presence or an absence of the underground utility in the dig area. A digital image of a geographic area comprising the dig area is displayed on a display device, and one or more electronic colored markers corresponding to the physical colored marker(s) are added to the displayed digital image so as to generate a marked-up image. Information relating to the marked-up image is electronically transmitted and/or electronically stored so as to document the locate operation.