Locate Wire Grounding Terminal Switching for Tracer Wire Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility line locating instruments face challenges in accurately locating non-metallic pipelines due to the requirement of a metallic conductor for generating electromagnetic signals, leading to inefficiencies and environmental damage to tracer wires.
Innovation Solution
A locate wire grounding terminal with a switch that allows toggling between grounded and ungrounded configurations, enabling efficient location of tracer wires by isolating the electromagnetic field and preventing bleed-over, using a printed circuit board with locating terminals and grounding lugs for enhanced connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If high frequency is used to generate electromagnetic fields, then the electromagnetic field coverage is increased, but the accuracy of locating the intended conductor deteriorates due to bleed-over onto nearby conductors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the grounding configuration changeable through a switch mechanism. The terminal can dynamically transition between grounded and ungrounded states, allowing the system to adapt its electromagnetic field characteristics. When ungrounded, the terminal isolates the electromagnetic field to the intended conductor, preventing bleed-over to nearby conductors while maintaining adequate field coverage for locating.
2Measurement precision
If low frequency is used to generate electromagnetic fields, then the locating accuracy is improved, but the requirement for a dedicated grounding source increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a terminal that serves multiple functions: it provides grounding when needed for low-frequency operations, but can also be switched to an ungrounded state for high-frequency operations. This multi-functional terminal eliminates the need for separate dedicated grounding sources for different operating modes, simplifying the overall system while maintaining the ability to achieve high locating accuracy when required.
3Ease of manufacture
If tracer wire ends are left exposed above grade, then installation simplicity is maintained, but the tracer wire is subject to environmental damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing pre-installed terminal housings at the tracer wire ends before the tracer wire is subjected to environmental exposure. These housings are installed during the initial installation process, creating protective enclosures that shield the tracer wire ends and connection points from environmental damage such as corrosion, moisture, and physical damage, while still allowing for relatively simple installation procedures.
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
Improves the accuracy of tracer wire location by allowing low-frequency signal transmission without bleed-over, protecting the wires from environmental damage and enhancing locating capabilities for non-metallic pipelines.
Implementation Method 1
The transmitter generates an electromagnetic field around a conductor (tracer wire or locate wire) either through a direct connection to the conductor or by means of induction based on the proximity of the transmitter to the conductor
Implementation Method 2
The terminal also includes a switch for changing the locate wire grounding terminal between a grounded configuration and an ungrounded configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A locate wire grounding terminal having a body for encapsulating various components of the locate wire grounding terminal, a switch for changing the locate wire grounding terminal between a grounded configuration and an ungrounded configuration, at least one locating terminal in electronic connectivity with the switch and one end of a section of tracer wire and a grounding lug in electronic connectivity with the switch. A locate wire grounding terminal device that includes a printed circuit board that can be incorporated into a locate wire terminal system, a switch attached to the printed circuit board to change the locate wire terminal system between a grounded configuration and an ungrounded configuration, at least one locating terminal attached thereto wherein the at least one locating terminal is in electronic connectivity with the switch and one end of a section of tracer wire. The device further includes a grounding lug attached to the printed circuit board and the at least one grounding lug is in electronic connectivity with the switch. Methods of using the terminal and device to locate tracer wire.