Optical Ground Tracking for Buried Object Locator Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current portable utility locators face limitations in accurately tracking the position of buried objects due to imprecise positioning technology and an inability to precisely track the locator's movement relative to the ground, which hinders the creation of accurate digital maps of underground installations.
Innovation Solution
The development of a locator device that incorporates an optical ground tracking apparatus using light generation and capture assemblies, combined with processing elements to determine position and motion information, and integrates this data with magnetic field signal detection to provide precise location and orientation of buried objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional portable utility locators use magnetic field signal detection, then they can detect buried objects, but the positioning precision and ability to track locator movement relative to the ground is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines magnetic field signal detection capabilities with optical ground tracking capabilities in a single locator device. The optical assembly includes a light source that projects patterns onto the ground and optical sensors that detect these patterns to determine locator position and orientation relative to the ground, merging two different detection methods to achieve both buried object detection and precise ground-relative positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system consisting of light sources and optical sensors that mediate between the locator and the ground surface. This optical intermediary projects light patterns onto the ground and detects reflected or scattered light to determine the locator's position and orientation, serving as a mediator that enables precise ground-relative tracking without requiring direct mechanical contact with the ground.
2Reliability
If the locator device integrates optical ground tracking with magnetic field detection, then positioning precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical assembly serves multiple functions within the locator device: the light source projects patterns for position determination, the optical sensors detect these patterns for tracking, and the same assembly can be used for both ground-relative positioning and for enhancing the detection of buried objects. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical ground tracking system provides continuous feedback about the locator's position and orientation relative to the ground to the processing system. This feedback enables real-time correction and adjustment of the locating operations, improving reliability by allowing the system to adapt to changes in ground conditions and locator movement dynamically.
3Manufacturing precision
If optical ground tracking is used to track locator movement, then mapping accuracy of buried objects improves, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring ground reflections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs optical patterns with specific color or wavelength characteristics that are projected onto the ground and detected by the optical sensors. By using distinct optical signatures and patterns, the system enhances the contrast between the projected patterns and the ground surface, making detection easier even in various lighting conditions and on different ground types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts optical parameters such as light intensity, pattern frequency, and wavelength to optimize detection under varying ground conditions. The processing system analyzes changes in these optical parameters across multiple measurements to determine position and orientation, adapting the detection strategy to the specific ground surface being measured.
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 the creation of accurate digital maps of buried objects by enhancing the precision of locating and tracking buried utilities, improving worker safety and project efficiency by providing detailed mapping information.
Implementation Method 1
an output light generator assembly and an input light sensor assembly
Implementation Method 2
generating an output light, providing the output light to the surface, receiving reflected output light from the surface
Implementation Method 3
a buried object detection module for determining the relative position and orientation of a buried object based on magnetic field signals emitted from the buried object
Data Source
AI summary
Optical ground tracking apparatus for use with buried object locators or other instruments or devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, a buried object locator includes a locator module disposed in our coupled to the housing to sense a buried object based on emitted magnetic fields, and a surface tracking module for determining motion information of the buried object locator based on light reflected from a tracking surface.