Simulation-Verified Magnetic Mapping for Underground Structure Geolocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mapping methods for underground, semi-underground, or submerged metallic or magnetic structures lack precision due to unverified magnetic data and require human intervention for anomaly correction, leading to inconsistent geolocation maps.
Innovation Solution
A method involving spatial magnetic data acquisition, provisional point generation, volume creation, simulation of magnetic values, score assignment, and selection of optimal points to generate a precise magnetic map without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated simulation-based mapping is implemented, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-generating simulation models of the underground structure before actual measurement. The system creates a virtual model that predicts magnetic field characteristics, which is then compared with actual measurements to verify and refine the geolocation map. This preliminary simulation step enables automated verification without requiring complex real-time analysis during field operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating a virtual copy (simulation model) of the physical underground structure. This digital twin allows the system to compare simulated magnetic signatures with actual measurements, enabling automated verification of geolocation accuracy without physically revisiting the site. The virtual model serves as a reference copy for validating the integrity of the mapped structure.
2Productivity
If automated verification without human intervention is implemented, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate due to lack of expert judgment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by automatically comparing simulated magnetic field data with actual measurements and using the discrepancies to refine the geolocation map. The system calculates differences between expected and observed magnetic signatures, then uses this feedback to adjust and verify the position and orientation of underground structures. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables automated anomaly detection with precision comparable to expert human analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by enabling automated verification and validation of geolocation maps without requiring human operators. The simulation-based comparison method allows the system to independently detect inconsistencies, verify structural integrity, and validate measurements, making the process self-sufficient while maintaining high precision through algorithmic analysis of magnetic data patterns.
3Reliability
If simulation-based verification is added to the mapping process, then reliability is improved, but loss of time increases due to additional computational steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces time loss by performing simulation computations in advance, before field measurements are taken. The virtual models and expected magnetic signatures are pre-calculated, allowing for rapid comparison with actual measurements during site operations. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for time-consuming real-time simulations, maintaining high reliability while minimizing additional processing time.
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
Automatically generates accurate geolocation maps by comparing simulated and measured magnetic data, ensuring consistency and eliminating anomalies, thus improving precision and simplifying the process.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring spatial magnetic data obtained by magnetic sensors at different measuring points of the area to be inspected, after injecting a current onto the structure
Implementation Method 2
simulation step, for each point of each volume (Vi), making it possible to calculate the simulated magnetic values (VMS) of the cloud points at all or some of the measuring points (Pm)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a mapping method for the status inspection and/or geolocation of an underground, semi-underground or submerged structure including a metallic or magnetic material. The method includes acquiring spatial magnetic data obtained by magnetic sensors at different measuring points of the area to be inspected, after injecting a current onto the structure. A provisional segment is generated, including a provisional set of points, and a volume around each provisional point, the volume including a point cloud. A simulation is performed for each point of each volume, making it possible to calculate the simulated magnetic values of the cloud points at all or some of the measuring points.