Multi-Frequency Buried Object Locator with Quad-Gradient Antenna
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional buried object locating systems operate on a single frequency, making it difficult to distinguish between the signal of interest and interfering signals, and limiting the ability to determine information about buried objects effectively.
Innovation Solution
A buried object locator system that generates and transmits multiple output signals at different frequencies and simultaneously receives and processes these signals to provide comprehensive information about buried objects, using a quad-gradient antenna array and processing module to generate visual and audible outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single frequency is used for signal transmission and detection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to distinguish between the signal of interest and interfering signals deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transmitting signals at multiple frequencies (e.g., 120 Hz, 240 Hz, 480 Hz) instead of a single frequency. The receiver measures impedance at each frequency and uses the varying impedance values to identify and eliminate interfering signals, thereby improving signal detection accuracy while maintaining manageable device complexity through systematic frequency variation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by sequentially transmitting signals at different frequencies in a repeating cycle. The transmitter alternates between multiple frequencies, and the receiver periodically measures impedance at each frequency, using the temporal pattern of measurements to distinguish target signals from continuous interfering signals through comparison across the periodic cycle.
2Measurement precision
If multiple frequencies are transmitted simultaneously, then the ability to distinguish signals and reduce interference is improved, but the device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the signal transmission and measurement process into distinct frequency segments. Instead of handling all frequencies simultaneously, the system transmits and measures at one frequency at a time in sequence, breaking down the complex multi-frequency problem into manageable single-frequency measurements that are then integrated through comparison.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the impedance measurements from multiple frequencies to inform signal identification and interference rejection. The receiver compares impedance values across different frequencies, and when a signal shows consistent impedance characteristics across frequencies while interferers do not, the system uses this feedback to confirm target signal identification and filter out interfering signals.
3Ease of operation
If conventional single-frequency locating systems are used, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the ability to determine comprehensive information about buried objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a locating system that performs multiple functions through multi-frequency operation. The same transmitter and receiver hardware that locates buried objects also characterizes them by measuring impedance variations across frequencies, providing both positional information and object characterization information without requiring separate specialized equipment.
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 accurate and simultaneous detection of buried objects by distinguishing between different frequencies, reducing interference and providing detailed information about object position, depth, and distortion, enhancing operator accuracy and safety.
Implementation Method 1
generating a plurality of current output signals at predefined frequencies and providing a simultaneous transmission of the current output signals to a buried object
Implementation Method 2
receiving radiated signal components associated with the buried object current at a plurality of the different output frequencies
Data Source
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AI summary
Multi-frequency buried object location system transmitters and locators are disclosed. A transmitter may generate and provide output signals to a buried object at a plu-rality of frequencies, which may be selected based on a connection type. Corresponding lo-cators may simultaneously receive a plurality of magnetic field signals emitted from the bu-ried object and generate visual and/or audible output information based at least in part on the plurality of received magnetic field signals. The visual and/or audible output may be further based on signals received from a quad-gradient antenna array.