Georeferenced Ground Detector Data Visualization

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for displaying measurement data from ground detectors, such as metal and iron detectors, in a georeferenced manner are complex and require significant expertise for interpretation, as they result in confusing representations of measurement fields.

Innovation Solution

A method that electronically stores measured values with their positions, identifies and groups detected objects, assigns geo-references, and combines similar measurement intensities to form coherent data structures, which are then displayed as polygons or filled areas on a visualization unit linked with earth surface data using a graphic information system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If measured values are arranged as individual profile lines, then comprehensive mapping of the measuring field is achieved, but the representation becomes confusing and requires great expertise for interpretation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomprehensive mappingVSAvoidinterpretation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple individual profile lines into a single comprehensive map view by georeferencing all measurement data to their actual spatial positions. This merging approach integrates scattered measurement information into a unified visual representation that maintains comprehensive coverage while eliminating the confusion of separate profile lines.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a one-dimensional profile line representation to a two-dimensional spatial map representation by assigning georeference coordinates (x, y, z) to each measured value. This dimensional change allows measurement data to be displayed in their true spatial context, making patterns and anomalies immediately visible without requiring expert interpretation of abstract profiles.

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

2Extent of automation

If measured values are stored electronically with position data, then automatic evaluation becomes possible, but data processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic evaluationVSAvoiddata processing
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary georeferencing of measurement data during the acquisition phase, assigning spatial coordinates to each measured value as it is collected. This preliminary action organizes the data structure in advance, enabling automatic evaluation and map generation without requiring complex post-processing operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a georeference coordinate system as an intermediary layer between the raw measurement data and the final visual representation. This intermediary structure standardizes the data organization, simplifying the automatic evaluation process by providing a consistent spatial framework for all measurements regardless of their source or timing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If georeferences are assigned to measured values, then clear spatial visualization is achieved, but data structure complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisualization clarityVSAvoiddata structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal georeferencing framework that serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides spatial positioning for visualization, enables automatic grouping of measurements by location, supports depth information storage, and facilitates map generation. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate data structures into a single coherent system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 enables clear, georeferenced visualization of measurement data, simplifying interpretation and facilitating automatic, precise display of detected metal objects on a computer unit, enhancing data processing and visualization efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

Metal and iron detectors use local distortions in the Earth's magnetic field caused by ferromagnetic or other metallic debris to locate them

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field distortion: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

a ground-penetrating radar, known by the names EMR, GPR or RES, uses anomalies in a reflected electromagnetic radiation to locate them

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentEP2026106B2Method for geo-referenced representation of measuring values of a measuring field determined using ground detectors and detector for use
Publication Date: 2015.03.04 VALLON 72800 ENINGEN DE
  • EP2026106B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for displaying metal objects detected by one or more ground detectors, for example metal detectors (2) and/or iron detectors (1), in a computer unit (5) with a visualization unit (8), as well as corresponding detectors (1, 2) for applying the method according to the invention. The measured values ​​determined by the respective detector (1, 2) at specific positions within a surveyed measurement field are stored together with the respective position, and related data structures with a specific, similar measurement intensity are generated from the measured values ​​of identified objects. These data structures are then assigned a georeference from a georeference system.The georeferenced, connected data structures in the form of polygons and/or filled polygon areas are linked to the data of an Earth surface survey using a geographic information system (GIS), whereby the georeferenced, connected data structures of the Earth surface survey are superimposed. (Figure).