Multi-Antenna GNSS Utility Locator for Positioning Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility locating systems are limited by the use of a singular GNSS antenna, which restricts their functionality in accurately mapping and identifying buried utility lines due to potential obstructions and multipath errors.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiple spaced apart GNSS antennas in utility locator devices, transmitter devices, backpack devices, and vehicle-mounted systems, along with processing elements and wireless communication, enhances positioning accuracy by generating and correcting position data in real-time or post-processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single GNSS antenna is used in utility locating systems, then the device complexity is reduced, but the positioning accuracy and reliability deteriorate due to obstructions and multipath errors
Solution Approach 1:
The single GNSS antenna is segmented into multiple spatially separated antennas (at least two) positioned at different locations on the utility locating system. This segmentation allows the system to receive GNSS signals from multiple independent paths, reducing the impact of obstructions and multipath errors on positioning accuracy while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular antenna design.
2Reliability
If multiple spaced apart GNSS antennas are implemented, then positioning accuracy improves by reducing obstructions and multipath errors, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple GNSS antennas are merged into a unified positioning system that processes signals from all antennas simultaneously. The antenna elements are combined with integrated signal processing capabilities that correlate signals across multiple antennas to determine both position and orientation, achieving high positioning reliability while managing system complexity through unified architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where position and orientation data from multiple antennas are continuously processed and used to adjust and refine the positioning solution in real-time. This feedback loop enhances positioning reliability by correcting for obstructions and multipath errors dynamically, while the automated processing reduces the operational complexity for users.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple GNSS antennas are used to determine position and orientation, then the functionality and measurement capability are enhanced, but the device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-antenna GNSS system is designed with multi-functionality to perform both position determination and orientation determination using the same antenna array. This universal approach allows the system to derive multiple measurement capabilities from a single hardware configuration, enhancing adaptability while avoiding the need for separate specialized systems for each function.
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 configuration improves the accuracy and reliability of locating buried utility lines by reducing obstructions and multipath errors, enabling precise positioning and orientation data, even in challenging environments.
Implementation Method 1
a multi-antenna GNSS element including at least two GNSS antennas spaced apart a predetermined known spacing and at least one GNSS receiver
Implementation Method 2
at least one antenna node to sense magnetic fields emitted from one or more buried utilities
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to buried utility locating devices, system, and methods having a plurality of spatially separated GNSS antennas. Baselines or other spatial relationships may be formed between pairs of position estimates associated with the GNSS antennas to determine information about the position, heading, and tilt/pose of the utility locating device.