Subterranean Path Analysis Using Cost-Based 3D Modeling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for subterranean and linear object analysis are inadequate in identifying lowest-cost paths and high-risk or high-reward areas, particularly in complex terrains, for applications such as tunnel planning and interdiction.
Innovation Solution
The development of systems and methods for creating digital models of subterranean areas using geographic and user-defined conditions, incorporating travel costs and path analysis algorithms like Dijkstra's or A* to determine lowest-cost paths and potential tunnel locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional subterranean analysis methods are used, then analysis can be performed with simple tools, but the ability to identify lowest-cost paths and high-risk areas in complex terrains is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the subterranean analysis problem into distinct functional modules: data acquisition module, digital model construction module, path analysis module, and cost calculation module. Each module handles a specific aspect of the analysis, allowing complex terrain analysis to be broken down into manageable computational tasks that can be processed systematically to identify lowest-cost paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces digital models as an intermediary representation between raw geographic data and path analysis results. These digital models serve as a mediator that transforms complex terrain data into a structured format suitable for algorithmic pathfinding, enabling accurate identification of lowest-cost paths without requiring direct complex terrain processing.
2Reliability
If comprehensive geographic and user-defined conditions are incorporated into digital models, then analysis accuracy improves, but data processing requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The digital model structure is designed to be universal and multi-functional, capable of incorporating various types of geographic conditions (elevation, soil type, hydrology) and user-defined conditions (travel costs, restrictions, preferences) within a single integrated framework. This universal model structure handles diverse data types uniformly, improving analysis reliability while managing system complexity through standardized data representation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages complexity by parameterizing the digital model, allowing geographic and user-defined conditions to be represented as adjustable parameters rather than fixed structures. This enables flexible incorporation of comprehensive conditions while maintaining a manageable system architecture where complex variations are handled through parameter adjustments rather than structural changes.
3Productivity
If path analysis algorithms like Dijkstra's or A* are implemented, then lowest-cost paths can be identified efficiently, but computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-processing geographic data into digital models and pre-calculating cost surfaces before executing path analysis algorithms. This preliminary preparation organizes data in an optimal format for algorithm execution, enabling efficient lowest-cost path identification while reducing computational energy consumption during the actual pathfinding operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or manual path analysis methods with algorithmic computation using Dijkstra's or A* algorithms. This substitution transitions from physical exploration or manual route planning to automated computational analysis, dramatically improving path identification efficiency while the digital model structure optimizes computational energy consumption through efficient data representation.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for identifying low cost subterranean paths are presented. Travel costs are assigned to areas of a 3D subterranean model based on geographic and man-made conditions. The model is analyzed to identify low cost paths of travel between points, from an area to a point and vice versa, and between multiple points in a given area. This analysis can be used to help inform planning for the construction of subterranean transport networks such as utility lines and tunnels by highlighting paths with the lowest costs. Similarly, this analysis can be used to identify likely locations for preexisting paths so that they can be explored or interdicted.