Multi-Frequency Buried Object Locator Signal Separation
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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 object location accurately, especially in environments with multiple buried utilities.
Innovation Solution
A buried object locating system that generates and transmits multiple output signals at different frequencies simultaneously, allowing receivers to process and display information based on multiple frequency signals, including quad-gradient coil antenna technology for enhanced signal processing and display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional single-frequency locating systems are used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to distinguish signal of interest from interfering signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the locating system into multiple independent frequency channels, each handling a specific frequency signal. The transmitter generates multiple frequency signals separately, and the receiver processes them through separate signal processing paths, allowing precise differentiation and location determination without interference between signals
Solution Approach 2:
The locating system is designed with multi-functionality to operate across multiple frequencies simultaneously. The transmitter can generate and transmit signals at various frequencies, and the receiver can detect and process signals from multiple frequencies through a unified system architecture, enabling accurate location determination in complex electromagnetic environments
2Reliability
If multiple frequency signals are transmitted simultaneously, then the ability to distinguish signals improves, but the device complexity increases due to optimized multi-frequency signal processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The signal processing system dynamically adapts to different frequency signals by implementing frequency-selective processing paths. The receiver can selectively activate and process specific frequency bands based on the transmitted signals, optimizing signal detection reliability while managing processing complexity through dynamic resource allocation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary frequency selection and processing stages between the raw signal reception and final location determination. These intermediary components filter, separate, and prepare multiple frequency signals for processing, enhancing detection reliability while organizing the complexity into manageable processing stages
3Loss of information
If single frequency operation is used, then the ease of operation is high, but the loss of information occurs due to inability to detect multiple buried objects simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple frequency detection capabilities into a single integrated locating system. The transmitter simultaneously generates multiple frequency signals, and the receiver processes all frequencies in parallel, combining the information from different frequency channels to provide complete buried object detection without requiring separate operations for each frequency
Solution Approach 2:
The locating system achieves multi-functionality by simultaneously detecting buried objects across multiple frequency bands through a unified operation mode. The system processes multiple frequency signals concurrently, extracting complete information about buried objects without requiring the operator to switch between different frequency modes or perform separate detection operations
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 frequency signals, reducing interference and improving the precision of object location determination, even in complex underground environments.
Implementation Method 1
transmitter for generating and transmitting a plurality of output signals at multiple frequencies onto buried or hidden objects
Implementation Method 2
locating receiver detects a resulting signal radiated from the buried object to determine location
Data Source
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 plurality of frequencies, which may be selected based on a connection type. Corresponding locators may simultaneously receive a plurality of magnetic field signals emitted from the buried 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.