GPS Trench Excavation Guidance Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for excavating long trenches require frequent re-marking by licensed surveyors due to obscured markings, leading to increased costs and directional challenges, especially in deep trenches where visibility of start and end points is limited.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing GPS technology, comprising a positioning system receiver, control unit, storage unit, user interface, and direction guidance display, to maintain the excavation of a trench along a predefined path by determining deviations from the path and providing correction signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional surveyor marking methods are used to define trench paths, then initial path establishment is achieved, but markings become obscured or erased over time requiring costly re-marking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the trench path using GPS coordinates and stores it in memory. This digital representation replaces physical surveyor markings, allowing the path information to be retained and referenced throughout the excavation process without degradation or obscuration, eliminating the need for re-marking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical surveyor marking system with an electronic GPS-based guidance system. Instead of using physical markers that can be obscured or erased, the system uses satellite positioning and electronic displays to provide continuous path guidance, substituting a fragile mechanical marking system with a robust electronic one.
2Length of moving object
If deep long trenches are excavated, then conduit installation capability is improved, but visibility of start and end points becomes impossible making directional awareness difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the GPS receiver continuously monitors the current position and compares it with the stored path coordinates. The control unit processes this information and provides real-time directional guidance through visual or audio signals, allowing operators to maintain correct orientation even when unable to see start or end points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary guidance system between the operator and the trench endpoints. Instead of relying on direct visual contact with start and end points, the GPS-based intermediary system translates position data into actionable directional guidance, enabling operators to navigate deep trenches without line-of-sight to endpoints.
3Measurement precision
If frequent re-marking by licensed surveyors is performed, then path accuracy is maintained, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the excavation system to self-correct and maintain path accuracy without external surveyor intervention. The GPS receiver continuously acquires positioning data, the control unit compares it with stored path coordinates, and the guidance system provides real-time corrections, allowing the system to maintain precision autonomously throughout the excavation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes continuous path monitoring and guidance throughout the excavation process. Instead of periodic re-marking, the GPS system provides uninterrupted positional feedback and directional guidance, maintaining path accuracy continuously from start to finish of the trench excavation.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for maintaining the excavation of an excavation site along a predefined path are disclosed. The device includes positioning system receivers, control units, storage units, user interfaces, and direction guidance displays. The control unit determines if positioning coordinates deviate from a predefined path and generates a path correction signal for display. The method involves designating start and end points, acquiring their positioning coordinates, inputting these into an excavation guidance device, and determining the excavation path. Excavation begins at the start point, with the guidance device providing path correction instructions to ensure the excavation follows the predefined path.