Automated Utility Asset Testing via Barcode and GPS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing utility infrastructure assets are prone to human error, leading to inaccurate data collection and documentation, which increases complexity and support costs as the infrastructure's intricacy and size grow, and current automation solutions do not effectively prevent wrong assets from being tested or incorrect test parameters from being applied.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a testing device to automatically create test specifications, execute tests, and document results, minimizing human intervention by determining test parameters and procedures based on static and dynamic attributes of the infrastructure assets, and associating test records with the correct assets using GPS and barcode scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual testing and documentation methods are used, then flexibility and adaptability in testing procedures are maintained, but human error increases leading to inaccurate data collection and documentation
Solution Approach 1:
The testing device automatically determines test parameters, executes tests, and documents results without human intervention. The system self-identifies infrastructure assets via barcode scanning, self-determines test specifications based on asset attributes, self-executes the test procedures, and self-documented results in the database, eliminating human error while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated electronic systems. The testing device uses computer processors to determine test parameters, electronic sensors to execute tests, and digital documentation systems to record results, substituting human manual operations with automated electronic processes that eliminate human error.
2Reliability
If automation is introduced to prevent human error, then data accuracy improves, but the complexity of the testing system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing device performs multiple functions within a single integrated system: it scans barcodes to identify assets, retrieves asset attributes from databases, determines appropriate test parameters, executes test procedures, monitors test execution, and documents results. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate manual operations while managing system complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses databases as intermediaries between the testing device and infrastructure assets. The database stores asset information, test specifications, and results, serving as a mediator that connects the automated testing system with the infrastructure assets, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining data accuracy.
3Productivity
If the infrastructure scale increases, then the utility's service capacity improves, but the complexity of ensuring all assets are properly tested and documented increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing device automatically manages the entire testing process for each asset including identification, parameter determination, test execution, and documentation. This self-service capability allows the system to scale with infrastructure size without proportionally increasing management complexity, as each asset is independently and automatically processed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where test results are automatically documented and stored in databases, creating a feedback loop that tracks which assets have been tested and their results. This automated feedback system manages testing complexity by providing real-time status information and ensuring complete coverage of all infrastructure assets.
4Area of stationary object
If more infrastructure assets are deployed, then the utility's coverage and service area expand, but the amount of data to be collected and documented increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing device automatically collects and documents all test data without human intervention. The system self-identifies assets, self-determines test parameters, self-executes tests, and self-documented results, eliminating the need for manual data collection and documentation processes that would otherwise increase linearly with the number of assets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual data collection and documentation processes with automated electronic systems. The testing device uses electronic sensors to collect test data and digital systems to document and store results in databases, substituting manual paperwork and data entry processes with automated electronic data management that handles increased data volumes efficiently.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed embodiments relate to systems and methods for creating a test record for a utility infrastructure including a plurality of interconnected components which convey a deliverable from at least one source to at least one destination. The computer implemented method may include a testing device that creates and monitors a test to create a test record. The test record may be stored in a database for access by other devices and/or users. The disclosed embodiments enable a testing device to provide accurate and convenient test records for the plurality of interconnected components.