Ground Tracking Device for Buried Utility Locating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for locating buried objects, such as utilities, are limited in accuracy and reliability due to user-induced variability and inability to measure motion in multiple axes, leading to potential safety hazards and costly errors during excavation.
Innovation Solution
A ground tracking device with a ground follower assembly and mounting system that generates output signals for motion in multiple axes, incorporating sensors like magnetic sensors, accelerometers, and GPS to provide precise positional and orientation data, reducing variability and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional locating methods are used, then the operation is simple, but the measurement precision and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locating system is divided into separate functional modules: ground follower assembly for contact-based positioning, non-contact sensors (laser, camera, GPS) for aerial positioning, and processor units for data fusion. Each module independently measures specific parameters, and their results are combined to achieve high-precision locating without requiring a single complex device
Solution Approach 2:
The locating device integrates multiple positioning methods (ground contact, laser ranging, visual recognition, GPS satellite positioning) into a single system that can adaptively select and combine different measurement approaches based on environmental conditions, providing universal applicability across various locating scenarios while maintaining high precision
2Reliability
If multiple sensors are integrated, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the processor continuously receives data from multiple sensors, compares measurements, and adjusts positioning calculations in real-time. This feedback loop allows the system to compensate for individual sensor errors and maintain high reliability even when one sensor provides inaccurate data
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensing layers are nested within the locating device structure: ground follower wheels at the base level, intermediate laser and camera systems, and GPS receivers at the upper level. Each nested layer provides independent verification and complementary information, enhancing reliability through hierarchical data fusion without requiring a flat expansion of complex sensor arrays
3Measurement precision
If ground follower assembly is used, then motion in multiple axes is measured, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The ground follower assembly automatically tracks and measures motion along the utility path without requiring manual intervention for positioning or data recording. The sensors and processors self-calibrate and continuously update location information, freeing the operator from complex manual measurement tasks while maintaining precise multi-axis motion tracking
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
Enhances the accuracy and reliability of locating buried objects by providing precise positional and orientation data, reducing the risk of accidents and costs associated with incorrect excavation.
Implementation Method 1
a wheel sensor element configured to measure a rotation of the wheel and generate a wheel rotation output signal corresponding to the rotation of the wheel
Implementation Method 2
The ground follower assembly may be configured to generate one or more output signals representative of a motion of the measurement device over a ground surface in two or more axes or dimensions of motion
Data Source
AI summary
A ground tracking apparatus for connection to a locator or other measurement device and configured to determine position, motion, and/or orientation information is disclosed. The ground tracking apparatus may include a ground follower assembly including one or more wheels, which may be detachably coupled to a buried object locator system to capture three-dimensional positional and orientation information during a locate process, as well as provide output data or information to be integrated with maps, photographs, drawings, or other data or information.