3D UWB Path Mapping Through Obstructions for Hidden Conduits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the path of conduits or pathways within obstructed environments, such as walls or sealed spaces, are inaccurate without visual inspection or expensive technologies, and conventional measurement devices fail to provide precise three-dimensional mapping.
Innovation Solution
A measurement device equipped with a multi-antenna Ultra-WideBand (UWB) transceiver and additional sensors is used to emit signaling through obstructions, allowing for three-dimensional positional tracking and visualization of pathways using augmented or virtual reality, supplemented by sensors for enhanced accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement devices (measuring tapes, electronic range finders, laser measurement devices) are used, then the devices are simple and easy to operate, but they cannot provide accurate measurements through obstructions or without direct line-of-sight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an extensible line (fishing line or tape) as an intermediary physical guide to traverse the obstructed pathway, combined with a multi-antenna UWB transceiver that emits signals through the obstruction. The transceiver acts as a mediator between the measurement device and the obstructed pathway, enabling signal penetration and 3D position tracking where conventional devices fail due to line-of-sight requirements.
2Measurement precision
If X-ray or other surface penetrating technology is used to determine conduit paths through walls, then accurate path determination is achieved, but the technology is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive X-ray or surface penetrating technology with a cost-effective combination of a multi-antenna UWB transceiver and an extensible line. The UWB transceiver provides sufficient measurement precision for conduit path determination at a fraction of the cost of penetrating technologies, achieving accurate 3D mapping without requiring costly equipment.
3Ease of operation
If fishing lines or tapes are used to measure distance and run wiring, then basic distance measurement is achieved, but the exact shape, turns, and bends of the pathway cannot be revealed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances basic fishing line or tape functionality by integrating a multi-antenna UWB transceiver that captures 3D positional data (x, y, z coordinates). This dimensional expansion transforms simple 1D distance measurement into comprehensive 3D pathway mapping, revealing the exact shape, turns, and bends of the conduit path while maintaining ease of operation.
4Measurement precision
If multi-antenna UWB transceiver and sensors are used for 3D positional tracking, then precise three-dimensional mapping is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single extensible line system: the line serves as both a physical guide for traversing the obstructed pathway and a mounting structure for the multi-antenna UWB transceiver. Additional sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer) provide complementary data for 3D orientation and position. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices while achieving precise 3D positional tracking.
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
Enables precise three-dimensional mapping of obstructed pathways without direct line-of-sight, providing real-time visualization and accurate measurements for construction and utility work, reducing the need for expensive penetrating technologies.
Implementation Method 1
The measurement device includes a multi-antenna Ultra-WideBand (UWB) transceiver that emits signaling that penetrates through various obstructions
Data Source
AI summary
A system, device, and associated methods are disclosed for obtaining and visualizing positions and measurements through obstructions. The device receives signaling from a wireless transceiver that is moved to different positions within an obscured pathway or space. The device converts the signaling into three-dimensional (3D) positions based on properties of the signaling changing upon arrival at the device from the different positions, and maps the 3D positions to corresponding positions about an image or a 3D model of the obscured pathway or space. The device presents a visualization of the 3D path at positions about an image or model of the obstructed pathway or space that correspond to the measured positions.