Multi-Coil Underground Transmitter for Wide-Frequency Drilling Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current underground transmitters in the horizontal directional drilling industry are limited to a narrow frequency range, requiring two separate devices for optimal performance in different situations, such as low frequencies under reinforced concrete and high frequencies for deep operations, leading to inefficiencies and the need for transmitter changes during drilling.
Innovation Solution
A multi-coil underground transmitter with coils optimized for different frequency ranges, allowing switching between them to cover the 0.3-50 kHz frequency range using a single device, utilizing a ferrite core and solid-state relays for efficient signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single underground transmitter is used, then device complexity is reduced, but frequency range coverage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitter is segmented into multiple coils, each optimized for specific frequency ranges. The first coil handles low frequencies (e.g., below 10 kHz) while the second coil handles high frequencies (e.g., above 10 kHz). This segmentation allows the single transmitter to cover a broad frequency spectrum without requiring multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmitter dynamically switches between different coils based on the required frequency range. The system can adaptively select which coil to use during operation, transitioning from low-frequency optimization to high-frequency optimization as needed. This dynamic switching capability enables versatile frequency coverage while maintaining a compact single-device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transmitters are used for different frequency ranges, then frequency coverage is improved, but device complexity and operational disruptions increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple coils that would traditionally require separate transmitter devices are merged into a single integrated transmitter unit. The first and second coils are housed together with shared control circuitry and power supply, eliminating the need to physically change devices when switching between frequency ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares both coils in advance within the same transmitter housing, with pre-configured circuitry for switching between them. This preliminary arrangement ensures that frequency transitions can occur instantly without operational disruptions, as all necessary components are already in place and configured.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If low frequency is used under reinforced concrete, then signal penetration is improved, but transmission efficiency at high frequencies is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different coils are designed with locally optimized characteristics for their intended frequency ranges. The first coil has properties optimized for low-frequency signal penetration through reinforced concrete, while the second coil has properties optimized for high-frequency transmission efficiency. Each coil's inductance, winding configuration, and core material are tailored to its specific frequency purpose.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmitter can change its electrical parameters by switching between coils with different inductance values and design characteristics. When low-frequency penetration is needed, the system activates the first coil with appropriate inductance for concrete penetration. When high-frequency efficiency is needed, the system switches to the second coil with optimized parameters for that range.
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 transmission across the entire 0.3-50 kHz frequency range with improved operational depth and accuracy, reducing the need for multiple transmitters and minimizing disruptions during drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a ferrite core and solid-state relays for efficient signal transmission
Implementation Method 2
A multi-coil underground transmitter with coils optimized for different frequency ranges, allowing switching between them to cover the 0.3-50 kHz frequency range
Data Source
AI summary
An underground transmitter can be configured for use with a drill head and configured for wireless communication. The underground transmitter can include a control circuitry and a multi-coil antenna assembly. The control circuitry is configured for transmitting data associated with an operation of the drill head. The multi-core antenna can include an antenna core and a plurality of distinct wire coils. The plurality of distinct wire coils can be positioned proximate (e.g., around) the antenna core, with the distinct wire coils each having a different inductance associated therewith and thereby capable of transmitting in a separate frequency range. The control circuitry can be selectably coupled with the distinct wire coils to control which of the distinct wire coils are activated and thereby generating data signals at a given time.