Interactive Magnetic Data Map for Buried Structure Geolocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing geolocation techniques for buried structures, particularly those using magnetometers, face challenges such as accuracy issues when multiple structures are close together, and variability in measurement quality due to environmental factors and structural signatures.
Innovation Solution
A mapping process that utilizes a vehicle equipped with magnetometers to scan and acquire magnetic field and position data, which is then processed to correct for environmental parameters and generate an interactive magnetic data map. This map allows operators to manually modify data to improve geolocation accuracy, distinguish between multiple structures, and adjust resolution levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetometer-based geolocation is used to detect buried structures, then the ability to locate structures is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates when multiple structures are close together or when environmental factors are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the geolocation process into distinct phases: initial automated detection using magnetometers to identify potential structures, followed by manual verification and refinement where operators review and correct the generated maps. This segmentation allows the system to leverage automated scanning efficiency while incorporating human judgment to resolve ambiguities caused by multiple nearby structures or environmental interference, thereby maintaining measurement precision in challenging conditions.
2Productivity
If automated magnetometer scanning is used, then productivity is improved, but measurement reliability deteriorates due to uncorrected environmental parameters and data quality variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the automated magnetometer scanning generates an initial geolocation map that is then reviewed and corrected by human operators. The corrected map feeds back into the system, allowing operators to refine detection parameters and improve the reliability of subsequent automated scans. This feedback loop ensures that productivity gains from automation do not compromise measurement reliability, as environmental parameter corrections and data quality issues are systematically addressed.
3Measurement precision
If manual correction of magnetic data is allowed, then geolocation accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases due to the interactive mapping system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an interactive magnetic data map as an intermediary between the automated magnetometer scanning system and the final geolocation output. This intermediary layer allows operators to visually inspect, manually correct, and refine the automated detection results without directly modifying the complex scanning hardware or algorithms. The interactive map serves as a user-friendly interface that simplifies the correction process while maintaining geolocation accuracy, thereby managing system complexity effectively.
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
The process enhances geolocation accuracy by allowing manual optimization of the magnetic data map, effectively addressing errors caused by multiple nearby structures and environmental variations, resulting in improved location maps with varying levels of resolution.
Implementation Method 1
This magnetic anomaly mapping makes it possible, based on a physical model, based on the nature of the measured source, to infer the position of the source from the emitted magnetic signal.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a mapping process for the condition inspection and/or geolocation of a buried, semi-buried or submerged structure and associated geolocation process. The mapping process includes a step of scanning a zone to be inspected. Magnetic field and position data are acquired by magnetometers associated with position sensors. Measurements from the acquisition step are processed to correct the data according to environmental parameters during data acquisition. A interactive magnetic data map is generated allowing an operator to delete, add and/or modify one or more surfaces directly on the interactive magnetic data map.