Surface Type Detection for Locate and Marking Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inaccurate locating and marking of underground facilities during excavation operations can lead to physical damage, property damage, and personal injury, making it difficult to prove whether facilities were properly located and marked, as physical marks are often disturbed or destroyed during excavation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system that includes sensors and image analysis software in marking devices to determine the type of surface being marked, ensuring appropriate marking materials are used and detecting undesirable operating conditions, thereby improving the accuracy and reliability of locate and marking operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical marking materials are used to mark underground facilities, then the facilities can be identified during excavation, but the marks are often disturbed or destroyed during excavation making it difficult to prove proper location and marking
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a digital copy of the marking information through sensors and image analysis software that capture and store data about the marked facilities. This digital record serves as a permanent copy that cannot be destroyed when physical marks are disturbed during excavation, allowing verification of proper marking procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary digital recording system between the physical marking process and the verification process. Sensors and image analysis software act as intermediaries that capture marking information and store it in a format that can be retrieved and verified independently of the physical marks themselves
2Reliability
If traditional marking devices are used without surface detection, then the marking operation is simple, but inaccurate locating and marking can lead to physical damage and property damage
Solution Approach 1:
The marking device is enhanced with multiple functions: it not only applies physical marks but also detects surface type through sensors and performs image analysis. This multi-functionality allows the same device to both mark facilities and verify marking conditions, improving accuracy without requiring separate equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-verification by using its own sensors and image analysis software to detect surface conditions and confirm proper marking application. This self-service capability allows the device to automatically assess whether marking was performed correctly based on detected surface characteristics
3Reliability
If marking materials are applied without surface type detection, then the process is faster, but inappropriate marking materials may be used reducing mark integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of surface type before marking materials are applied. Sensors capture surface characteristics and image analysis software processes this information to determine the appropriate marking approach, ensuring material integrity is maintained from the start of the marking process
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatus for performing surface type detection in connection with locate and marking operations. In some embodiments, one or more sensors may be employed to collect information regarding a ground surface on which marking material is to be dispensed which is then analyzed to provide an estimate of a type of the surface. For example, a still-image or video camera may be used as a sensor that detects visible light reflecting from a surface. One or more images captured by the camera may be analyzed using analysis software to identify one or more characteristics indicative of a surface type. As another example, one or more radiation sensors may be employed to measure an amount of electromagnetic radiation reflected by the sensed surface one or more selected wavelengths or ranges of wavelengths to identify a spectral signature that may also be indicative of a surface type.