Buried Object Scanning Device with Virtual Grid Overlay

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional buried object scanning devices require marking on the concrete surface, increasing operator workload during the search process.

Innovation Solution

A buried object scanning device with a detection unit, search image conversion processing unit, memory unit, display unit, operation input unit, and display control unit that superimposes a search image with a grid layer, allowing the image to be moved relative to the grid lines, eliminating the need for surface markings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If marking work is performed on the concrete surface to define scanning ranges, then the operator can accurately identify scanning areas and buried object positions, but the operator workload and time consumption increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition identification accuracyVSAvoidoperator workload
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical scanning environment by generating a search image that represents the scanned area and overlaying it with a grid layer. This virtual representation allows operators to identify buried object positions and scanning ranges without performing physical marking work on the concrete surface, thereby reducing operator workload while maintaining position identification accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical marking process (physically marking the concrete surface with tape or other markers) with an electronic/digital system. The search image and grid layer are generated and displayed through a display unit, substituting the mechanical marking action with electronic image processing and display, which eliminates the need for physical marking materials and reduces operator burden.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If marking work is performed on the concrete surface, then scanning ranges can be clearly defined, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesearch efficiencyVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the display unit serve multiple functions: it displays the search image showing buried object detection results, overlays the grid layer for position reference, and enables dragging operations for interactive exploration. This multi-functional display approach eliminates the need for separate marking tools and processes, simplifying the overall workflow while maintaining scanning range definition capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a dynamic interaction model where the search image can be dragged relative to the grid layer, allowing operators to dynamically adjust and explore different viewing perspectives. This dynamic capability replaces static physical markings with flexible digital manipulation, reducing process complexity while enabling comprehensive search area analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Reduces operator burden by allowing distance and position checks without surface markings, enhancing the efficiency of buried object detection and visualization.

Implementation Method 1

a device that detects buried objects on the basis of changes in reflected electromagnetic waves emitted toward the surface of concrete

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

signal values of electromagnetic waves that have been reflected by a buried object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic wave propagation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12189076B2Buried object scanning device, display control method for buried object scanning device, and display control program
Publication Date: 2025.01.07 OMRON CORP
  • US12189076B2 patent drawing
  • US12189076B2 patent drawing
  • US12189076B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A buried object scanning device includes a capacitance sensor, a search image conversion processing unit, a memory unit, a display unit, an operation input unit, and a display control unit. The capacitance sensor detects a buried object. The search image conversion processing unit converts the detection result of the capacitance sensor into a search image. The memory unit stores search images and a grid layer including grid lines corresponding to a specific scale. The display unit displays the search images and the grid layer. The display control unit controls the display unit to display the search image superimposed with the grid layer and to display the search image in a state of being movable relative to the grid layer, in response to input to the operation input unit.