Overlaying GPR and VLF Data on Shared Axis for Buried Target Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and very low frequency (VLF) technologies face challenges in accurately detecting buried pipes and electrical lines due to interference and false positives, which hinders precise location and discrimination of buried objects.
Innovation Solution
A visual display system that overlays output from both GPR and VLF receivers using identical axes, allowing simultaneous viewing of magnetic field data and radar outputs, with distinct color coding to enhance detection accuracy by merging data from higher and lower frequency antennas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPR and VLF outputs are displayed separately on different screens or monitors, then each detection method can be viewed in detail, but it becomes difficult for users to compare and correlate the two detection results effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines GPR and VLF detection outputs into a single display screen, overlaying the two different detection methods on the same visual interface. This allows users to directly compare and correlate results from both methods simultaneously, improving ease of operation while maintaining detection accuracy through the use of distinct color coding and visualization schemes for each method.
2Ease of operation
If only GPR method is used for detection, then the system is simpler to operate, but it produces false positives and cannot reliably distinguish between different types of buried objects
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses VLF detection as a feedback mechanism to verify GPR detection results. When GPR detects a potential target, the overlayed VLF data provides confirmation or contradiction, allowing the system to filter false positives and reliably distinguish between different types of buried objects such as metal pipes, electrical cables, and non-conductive materials.
3Ease of operation
If only VLF method is used for detection, then the system is simpler to operate, but it cannot detect non-conductive buried objects such as plastic pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal detection system that combines both GPR and VLF methods in a single platform. The GPR component detects all buried objects regardless of material composition, while the VLF component specifically detects conductive objects. Together, they provide multi-functional capability to detect all types of buried objects including metal pipes, electrical cables, and non-conductive plastic pipes, while maintaining ease of operation through unified display and control.
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 improves detection accuracy by providing a comprehensive view of buried targets, reducing false positives and interference, and enabling precise location of buried objects by combining the strengths of both GPR and VLF methods.
Implementation Method 1
GPR uses radio frequencies and is particularly useful in that it is both non-destructive and non-ionizing
Implementation Method 2
alternating current carrying conductors (i.e., utility power lines) produce magnetic fields which can be detected with an transducer at proper frequencies
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment of the disclosed technology, a visual output of data from a ground-penetrating radar and magnetic field measuring device is displayed on a visual medium. The display has a first exhibition of output from the ground-penetrating radar device and a second from a magnetic field measuring device, such as a very low frequency (VLF) receiver. Using an identical axis, such as an X-axis measuring time or distance, output of each device is exhibited and overlaid over one another. In this manner, one can detect (using two different methodologies and uses) the visual exhibition of both to best determine the location of a metal or electrical target.