Self-Standing Utility Locator Support for Stable Signal Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility locator devices require manual support and are often bulky, making them inconvenient and obtrusive, especially when used with large antenna nodes, limiting their usability and accuracy in locating buried utilities.
Innovation Solution
A retractable antenna node support structure with multiple legs that can be detachably secured to the locator, allowing it to self-stand upright without user support, optimized for use with large antenna nodes and designed to minimize interference with magnetic and electromagnetic signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a utility locator uses a traditional manual support method, then the device can be simple in structure, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the user must continuously hold the locator upright
Solution Approach 1:
The locator device supports itself through an automated leg deployment mechanism that extends support legs when the locator is placed on a surface, eliminating the need for continuous manual support. The system serves itself by automatically adjusting its support structure based on detection of the operating surface.
2Ease of operation
If a utility locator uses a self-standing support structure, then the ease of operation improves by allowing hands-free operation, but the device complexity increases due to additional support mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The support legs are designed to be dynamically deployable rather than permanently fixed. The legs can be automatically extended or retracted based on whether the locator is in handheld or surface-based operation mode, allowing the system to adapt its complexity to the operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The support function is segmented into a separate deployable leg mechanism rather than being integrated into the main locator body. This modular approach allows the support structure to be added without fundamentally redesigning the entire locator system.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a utility locator uses a bulky support structure to ensure stability, then the stability improves, but the portability deteriorates because the device becomes heavier and more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The support legs are designed to be deployable only when needed for stability during hands-free operation. When the locator is held manually, the legs remain retracted, maintaining a compact and portable form factor. The system dynamically adjusts its physical configuration to provide stability only when the operating mode requires it.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a utility locator uses a fixed support structure, then the stability improves, but the adaptability deteriorates because the device cannot transition between handheld and hands-free modes
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed to be dynamically adjustable between extended and retracted states. This allows the locator to adapt between hands-free operation mode (legs extended for stability) and handheld operation mode (legs retracted for portability), providing both stability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployable leg mechanism enables the locator to perform multiple functions: it can operate in both handheld mode and hands-free surface-based mode. The same support structure serves different operational requirements, making the device universally applicable to various working conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is directed to utility locators and associated antenna node support structure devices for allowing a utility locator to self-stand in an upright position without being held or otherwise supported by a user.