Modular Locator With Removable Antenna Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underground locators, such as line and marker locators, are bulky, delicate, and difficult to store and transport, requiring multiple units for various utility location tasks.
Innovation Solution
A modular locator system comprising a base module and removable antenna modules, allowing for easy swapping and reconfiguration between different antenna types, with a robust and environmentally sealed mechanical and electrical connection for enhanced functionality and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If locators are made bulky and delicate to ensure functionality and detection accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in storage and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The locator is divided into separate modules: a base module containing electronics and processing capabilities, and removable antenna modules for detection. This segmentation allows the delicate detection components to be separated from the robust base unit, enabling easy storage and transport of individual modules while maintaining measurement precision when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The base module is designed with universal electrical and mechanical couplers that can accept different types of antenna modules (e.g., line locator antennas, marker locator antennas). This multi-functionality allows a single base unit to perform multiple location tasks by simply changing the antenna module, improving ease of operation while maintaining detection accuracy for various utilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate locators are used for different utility location tasks, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to needing multiple units for various functions
Solution Approach 1:
The base module incorporates universal electrical connectors and mechanical couplers designed to interface with multiple types of antenna modules. This allows the same base unit to function as both a line locator and marker locator by simply attaching the appropriate antenna module, achieving multi-functionality without requiring multiple separate units.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the antenna modules from the base unit, the system allows users to select and attach only the antenna type needed for the current task. This modular approach reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for multiple complete locator units while maintaining the adaptability to handle different utility location tasks.
3Reliability
If locators are designed as single integrated units, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in storing and shipping
Solution Approach 1:
The locator system is segmented into a robust base module and separate antenna modules. The base module maintains structural integrity and reliability for processing and control functions, while the antenna modules can be easily removed for storage and shipping. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing the delicate antenna portions to be separated from the sturdy base unit during transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna modules are designed to nest within or alongside the base module when not in use, creating a compact configuration for storage and shipping. This nesting approach maintains the reliability of the integrated system during operation while providing ease of operation during transport by reducing the overall volume and protecting delicate components.
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 efficient storage and transportation of locators while allowing them to perform multiple functions, improving usability and manufacturing flexibility by enabling the same base unit to operate as both a line and marker locator.
Implementation Method 1
one or more antennas positioned to detect the magnetic field emitted from an underground cable or pipe
Implementation Method 2
current flowing through the cable or pipe generates the magnetic field that is detected by the locator
Implementation Method 3
A marker locator generates an electromagnetic wave and detects the reflected wave from the marker
Implementation Method 4
markers are configured to reflect electromagnetic radiation of a selected frequency
Data Source
AI summary
A locator is disclosed that includes a base module and an antenna module. The base module and antenna module are coupled both mechanically and electrically at a joint. Such an arrangement allows for easy stowage and shipment of the locator as well as the ability, by interchanging antenna modules, to provide multi-functional locators.