Switchable Coil Array Antenna for Underground Line Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underground line locators face challenges in optimizing sensitivity for detecting buried conductors, particularly due to unconnected turns in conventional antenna configurations which reduce sensitivity and introduce interference.
Innovation Solution
The proposed antenna configuration uses a switchable coil array system where leads from multiple coil arrays are connected in series or parallel through a switch, ensuring all coils are part of the circuit, thereby optimizing sensitivity and adjusting it based on user input or processor control for improved signal reception across various frequencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional antenna configurations with unconnected turns are used, then the antenna structure is simpler, but sensitivity is reduced and interference is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a switchable coil array system where the connection configuration of multiple coil arrays can be dynamically changed through switches. This allows the antenna to adapt its sensitivity and frequency response characteristics based on operational requirements, resolving the contradiction by making the antenna configuration dynamic rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the antenna by switching between series and parallel connections of coil arrays. This allows optimization of sensitivity and frequency response for different detection scenarios, addressing the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity through parameter adjustment.
2Measurement precision
If multiple frequencies are detected during a locating session, then location accuracy improves, but the complexity of maintaining optimal sensitivity across all frequencies increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal antenna system that can operate effectively across multiple frequencies by using switchable coil arrays. The same physical antenna structure can be reconfigured to optimize sensitivity for different frequencies, eliminating the need for separate specialized antennas for each frequency and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic switching capability allows the antenna to adapt its configuration for different frequencies during a locating session, maintaining optimal sensitivity across the full frequency range without requiring multiple static antenna systems.
3Reliability
If all coils are connected in the circuit through switchable arrays, then sensitivity is optimized and interference is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to additional switches and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna into multiple separate coil arrays that can be independently connected or disconnected through switches. This segmentation allows selective activation of only the necessary coils for a given frequency range, improving signal reception quality while managing complexity through modular design rather than requiring all coils to be permanently connected.
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
This configuration enhances the sensitivity of the antenna, allowing for more accurate detection of buried conductors by ensuring all turns are connected, reducing interference, and enabling optimal sensitivity for multiple frequencies during a locating session.
Implementation Method 1
The transmitter couples the current signal, whose frequency can vary from few Hz to several kHz and be user chosen from a selectable set of frequencies, to the target conductor. The target conductor then generates an electromagnetic field at the active locate frequency in response to the current signal.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5A~5B
AI summary
In accordance with some embodiments, an antenna is presented. In some embodiments, an antenna includes a plurality of coil arrays arranged along a core; and a switch coupled to each of the plurality of coil arrays, the switch connecting the plurality of coil arrays in one of a plurality of configurations in response to one or more sensitivity control signal.