Induction Reference Point Locator for Electrical Wiring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for locating a reference point on one side of a structure from the opposite side often involve guesswork and multiple test holes, leading to inefficiency and inaccuracies in tasks like electrical wiring installations.

Innovation Solution

An induction-based reference point locator system using a transmitter to generate an alternating magnetic field on one side of a structure and a receiver to detect and provide directional indications on the opposite side, allowing precise alignment of the reference point.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the installer uses guesswork and drills multiple test holes to locate a reference point, then the reference point will eventually be found, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation accuracyVSAvoidtime to locate reference point
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical drilling method with an electromagnetic field-based detection system. A transmitter generates an alternating magnetic field that passes through the structure, and a receiver detects this field to provide directional indications, eliminating the need for physical test holes and guesswork while rapidly locating the reference point

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an electromagnetic field as an intermediary between the transmitter on one side of the structure and the receiver on the other side. This intermediary carries information about the reference point location without requiring physical penetration or direct contact, enabling non-invasive detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the installer drills multiple test holes to find the reference point, then location accuracy improves, but the complexity of the process increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation accuracyVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex iterative process of drilling multiple holes and visually checking locations is replaced by an electronic system that provides real-time directional feedback. The receiver gives continuous guidance to move toward the transmitter, simplifying the process into a single systematic procedure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the receiver continuously monitors the magnetic field strength and provides directional indications to guide the installer toward the reference point. This real-time feedback replaces the trial-and-error approach with a guided, systematic process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables accurate and efficient location of a reference point on one side of a structure from the opposite side, reducing the need for multiple test holes and improving the precision and speed of installations like electrical wiring.

Implementation Method 1

a transmitter locatable at a position on a first side of a structure, the transmitter configured to generate an alternating magnetic field at a desired frequency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a receiver locatable on a second side of the structure opposite the first side, the receiver configured to detect the magnetic field and provide a directional indication to the position of the transmitter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field detection: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS9172225B2Induction-based reference point locator
Publication Date: 2015.10.27 LABOR SAVING SYST
  • US9172225B2 patent drawing
  • US9172225B2 patent drawing
  • US9172225B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an induction-based reference point locator is provided. The locator includes transmitter locatable at a position on a first side of a structure, the transmitter configured to generate an alternating magnetic field at a desired frequency; and a receiver locatable on a second side of the structure opposite the first side, the receiver configured to detect the magnetic field and provide a directional indication to the position of the transmitter relative to the second side of the structure.