Marker Locator Depth Estimation Using Multiple Transmitters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marker locator systems face challenges in accurately determining the depth of buried markers without invasive methods, often requiring cumbersome operator maneuvers and potentially inconsistent accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A marker locator system employing multiple transmitters positioned at different locations to transmit activation signals and measure response signals, allowing for the estimation of marker depth by comparing the intensities of round-trip signals, thereby simplifying the depth determination process and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single transmitter is used in the locator, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of marker depth is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locator is divided into multiple transmitters (first transmitter and second transmitter) positioned at different locations. Each transmitter independently measures the round-trip signal intensity to the marker, providing multiple measurement data points that improve depth measurement precision through comparison and analysis.
2Measurement precision
If the locator is moved to different positions to measure marker depth, then the measurement precision improves, but the productivity decreases due to time-consuming maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple transmitters are pre-positioned at different locations within the locator device before operation begins. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need to physically move the locator during measurement, as all necessary measurement positions are already occupied by transmitters, thereby improving productivity while maintaining measurement precision.
3Reliability
If multiple transmitters are used at different positions, then the measurement precision and reliability improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple transmitters are integrated into a single locator device, combining their functions into one unified instrument. The transmitters work together to provide redundant and complementary measurements, improving reliability through multiple data sources while presenting a single operational interface to the user, thus managing device complexity.
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
This approach enables accurate and reliable depth estimation of buried markers without moving the locator, enhancing operational efficiency and consistency in marker location detection.
Implementation Method 1
A locator is equipped to transmit and receive signals (e.g., electromagnetic signals) to and from the markers
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method of for estimating the depth of a marker may include a marker locator. The marker locator may include a first transmitter that generates a first activation signal, second transmitter that generates a second activation signal, a receiver that detects first and second response signals, and a processor that determines a depth of a marker based on the first and second response signals. The first transmitter is located at a first position, and the second transmitter is located at a second position apart from the first position. The first and second response signals respectively correspond to the first and second activation signals. The processor is coupled to the receiver. According to some embodiments, the first and second activation signals and the first and second response signals may be separated by time division multiplexing.