RF Imaging Device for Elongated Object Detection in Concrete
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging technologies, such as Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), face challenges in accurately imaging elongated objects like pipes and rebars due to distorted views caused by coherent summation issues and inadequate data quality, especially when objects are embedded in mediums like concrete.
Innovation Solution
A RF imaging device with an array of transducers and a processing unit that transmits and receives signals to create a detailed image of elongated objects by computing delays and amplitudes, and using hypothesis testing to estimate parameters like orientation and radius, providing a 2D or 3D graphical visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If standard radar imaging algorithms (delay and sum) are used to back propagate signals, then imaging of subsurface elements is achieved, but the view of elongated objects becomes distorted and sub-optimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of signal processing from simple delay-and-sum back propagation to a model-based approach that incorporates object geometry parameters (radius, orientation, length) and electromagnetic wave propagation physics. This allows accurate representation of elongated objects by modeling how waves reflect from cylindrical surfaces rather than treating all reflectors as point sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electromagnetic wave propagation model as an intermediary between the raw radar signals and the final image. This model acts as a mediator that translates signal delays and amplitudes into accurate spatial representations of elongated objects, accounting for the specific reflection characteristics of cylindrical geometries embedded in heterogeneous media.
2Reliability
If coherent summation is used for signal processing, then some signal integration is achieved, but only discrete points along the pipe receive coherent summation while others remain distorted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the signal processing approach adaptive to the local geometry of elongated objects. Rather than using a uniform back propagation method for all points, the model calculates specific reflection points and delay times for each antenna pair based on the local cylindrical surface geometry, ensuring coherent summation is applied correctly at each location along the object's length.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamics by making the reflection point calculation variable rather than fixed. The model dynamically determines the optimal reflection point on the cylindrical surface for each antenna pair and target location combination, allowing coherent summation to be properly applied across the entire continuous length of elongated objects rather than only at discrete predetermined points.
3Productivity
If existing GPR methods are used for detecting elongated objects, then general detection is achieved, but detection probability and parameter estimation accuracy are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing model-based signal synthesis and comparison before final image reconstruction. The system pre-calculates expected signal characteristics for elongated objects with various parameters (radius, orientation, depth) and uses these predictions to guide the imaging process, improving both detection probability and parameter estimation accuracy by having reference models ready for comparison.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through an iterative optimization process where the modeled signals are compared with actual measured signals, and the object parameters (radius, orientation, position) are adjusted to minimize the difference between modeled and measured data. This feedback loop continuously refines the parameter estimates until convergence, significantly improving measurement precision for elongated objects.
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
The solution enables accurate imaging of elongated objects embedded in various mediums, improving detection probability and parameter estimation, with the ability to display real-time images of hidden targets, overcoming the limitations of existing GPR methods.
Implementation Method 1
uses radar pulses to image the subsurface of an object. This nondestructive method uses electromagnetic radiation in the microwave band (UHF/VHF frequencies) of the radio spectrum, and detects the reflected signals from subsurface structures.
Implementation Method 2
detects the reflected signals from subsurface structures
Data Source
AI summary
The methods and device disclosed herein provide electromagnetic (EM) portable device for imaging an object embedded within a medium, the device comprising an array, the array comprises at least two transducers, wherein at least one of the at least two transducers is configured to transmit a signal towards the object, and at least one transceiver attached to said at least two transducers, the at least one transceiver is configured to transmit at least one signal toward the object and receive a plurality of signals affected by the object while the array is moved in proximity to the medium; a data acquisition unit configured to receive and stare the plurality of affected signals; and a processor unit configured to provide one or more hypothetical parameter values aver a parameter space of said at least one object and provide a target model per hypothesis of said parameter values, and compute a score value per hypothesis as a function of the target model and the affected signals.