Remote CPT Probe Deployment With Automated Levelling and Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional cone penetration testing (CPT) systems require manual operation by an operator in close proximity to high-pressure hydraulic equipment, leading to physical strain injuries and unsafe conditions, especially in uncertain geological environments, and lack reliable remote monitoring of geotechnical structures at risk of failure.

Innovation Solution

A remotely operated system with a mobile platform, coiled rod, sensors, and automated control units (tracking, levelling, and deployment) enables fully autonomous subsurface measurements and sensor installations, using programmable logic controllers (PLCs) for fail-safe operations and real-time data transmission to a remote workstation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual operation of CPT machine is used, then operator can directly control the machine, but operator is exposed to physical strain and safety risks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator controlVSAvoidphysical strain and safety risks

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated control system. The operator interface electronically controls the hydraulic system and rod deployment mechanisms, eliminating the need for manual rod assembly and direct physical handling of heavy components. This substitution reduces physical strain while maintaining operational control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates automatic rod assembly and deployment mechanisms that operate without direct manual intervention. The hydraulic system automatically advances the rod sections, and the coil-fed rod system self-deploys during penetration, reducing the operator's physical workload and exposure to hazardous environments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If operator is located in close proximity to hydraulic equipment, then direct control is possible, but safety risks increase in uncertain geological conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedirect controlVSAvoidsafety in uncertain geological conditions

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The operator is extracted from the immediate vicinity of the penetration point and placed in a protected location. The control system transmits commands remotely to the machine, allowing the operator to monitor and control the penetration process without being physically exposed to potential hazards from uncertain geological conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

An electronic control system acts as an intermediary between the operator and the hydraulic equipment. The operator interfaces with the system through controls and displays, while the intermediary system executes commands and provides feedback, enabling indirect but reliable control that enhances safety while maintaining operational capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If coiled rod system is used, then manual assembly is reduced, but automated control and tracking systems are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesampling efficiencyVSAvoidautomated control systems

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system performs multiple functions including tracking the mobile platform position, controlling hydraulic operations, managing rod deployment, and monitoring penetration data. This multi-functional approach consolidates complexity into a single integrated system that enables efficient automated operation without requiring separate complex subsystems for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Reliability

If remote operation is implemented, then operator safety is improved, but real-time control capability must be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator safetyVSAvoidreal-time control

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that transmit operational data, position information, and penetration measurements from the remote machine to the operator interface in real-time. This feedback loop enables the operator to monitor the operation remotely and make immediate adjustments, maintaining real-time control capability while keeping the operator at a safe distance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12612752B2System for remotely operated subsurface measurements

Publication Date: 2026.04.28 FNV IP BV

AI summary

A system is provided, includinga remotely operated machine having:a coiled rod with a probe to be penetrated into subsurface by uncoiling the rod;a tracking unit determining a position of the machine; andadjustable support legs for stabilizing and levelling the machine;a remote workstation having a user interface for data input and output;a tracking control unit for tracking movement of the machine based on its position;a levelling control unit for controlling the support legs; anda deployment control unit for controlling uncoiling of the rod and penetration of the probe into the subsurface;the tracking control unit, levelling control unit and deployment control unit configured to communicate with the remote workstation allowing operation of these units to be monitored, initiated and/or controlled via the user interface; andthe tracking control unit, levelling control unit, and deployment control unit configured to transmit a signal indicating successful execution of its operation.