Abstract: The invention relates to a mechanical support device (10) for at least one sensor plate, for example an antenna element (18) in a device for transmitting and/or receiving electromagnetic high-frequency signals. According to the invention, the support device (10) is configured as a coil form (24, 26) of at least one winding (32, 32?, 32?; 34, 34?, 34?; 36, 36?, 36?) in an inductive sensor. In addition, the invention relates to a measuring device comprising multiple sensors, in particular a locating device (80) for detecting objects that are enclosed in a medium, said measuring device having at least one support device (10) of this type.

Abstract: A locating device, in particular a hand-held locating device, for detecting objects enclosed in a medium, having a housing and at least one sensor system provided in a housing, as well as an opening penetrating the device. The opening in the measuring device and penetrating the device is illuminable by at least one light source provided in the measuring device.

Abstract: A multi-scanner device having a detection unit and an outlet tester that can be selectively connected together for convenient use and easy storage. Preferably, a plug on the outlet tester is inserted into a non-functional socket located on the detection unit to form a multi-scanner device with a detachable outlet tester.

Abstract: A service tee marker fixture comprises a disk marker and a cylindrical attachment sleeve fastened concentrically to the disk marker and constructed of a flexible material which provides a releasable friction fit with a service tee cap. For certain sleeve materials a stiffener plate is used to secure an end portion of sleeve adjacent to the disk marker. Detents are formed inside the attachment sleeve to grip matching ribs on the cap. An integrally formed inwardly-extending annular flange at an open end of the sleeve helps retain the sleeve on the cap. When installed the wire coil is horizontal and the marker shields the tee, and is further centered over a centerline of the main pipe. A novel method is also disclosed for using the service tee marker fixtures to survey and locate service line end points.

Abstract: Non-destructive method for detecting zones with non-conductive materials, such as materials that include glass fibers, in a part made of a conductive composite, such as a composite whose reinforcing fibers are carbon fibers, provided with an organic coating, that includes the following stages: a) providing a device for applying an electric potential on the surface of said part; b) determining the dielectric breakdown potential Pr corresponding to the thickness E of the coating; c) applying said dielectric breakdown potential Pr with said device to the part for the purpose of identifying those zones that have non-conductive materials when dielectric breakdown does not occur in them.

Abstract: A system for tracing wire includes an electrical exciter adapted to apply a voltage to a ground-laid wire to generate a corona at an outer surface of the ground laid wire, at least a portion of the corona including ultraviolet c-band radiation, and an ultraviolet c-band detector to detect the ultraviolet c-band radiation to trace at least a portion of the path of the ground-laid wire.

Abstract: The invention provides for a system and method for locating concealed locations such as wiring, plumbing, or void locations with respect to a covering material like a wall. The system comprises a position indicating portion that is concealed on one side of a covering material and a position locating portion positioned on the opposite side and adjacent to the covering material. The position indicating portion is coupled to any structural member using a mounting mechanism, thereby establishing the location of a site by creating a magnetic field extending through said covering material at that location. The position locating portion comprises a position locating magnet while the position indicating portion comprises a position indicating magnet. The position locating magnet cooperates repulsively and attractively through the covering material with a position indicating magnet in order to locate the concealed site by substantially aligning the position indicating portion and the position locating portion.

Abstract: Discriminating between a cable locating signal and a false cable locating signal is described. A reference signal, which contains a locating signal frequency impressed on it, is transmitted in a way which provides for detection of a phase shift between the locating signal and the false locating signal. Based on the phase shift, a receiver is used to distinguish the locating signal from the false locating signal.

Abstract: A device for locating structural stud members beneath a surface such as a shingled roof. The device includes a support block for receiving a probe member, the probe member extending from the support block at a selected arc of curvature terminating at a point spaced apart from the support block. An indicator member is fixed to the support block, the indicator member extending from the support block parallel to the probe member and having an end coextensive with the termination point of the probe member such that the indicator member provides a user with the orientation and termination point of the probe member when the probe member is beneath the surface. In use, a hole created within the surface and the support block rotated on the surface until the probe member abuts an edge of a structural stud member.

Abstract: A testing system includes a hand-held transmitter that plugs into a receptacle electrically coupled to a selected branch circuit. The transmitter includes a circuit effective to test an arc fault circuit interrupter electrically coupled to the branch circuit by creating a first pulse on the branch circuit that is effective to trip the arc fault circuit interrupter. The transmitter can perform at least one additional test including: determining whether the receptacle is wired properly; determining a location of a circuit interrupting device electrically coupled to the branch circuit by creating a second pulse on the branch circuit that can be sensed by a receiver located proximately to the respective circuit interrupting device and broadly tuned about a frequency of the second pulse; and testing a ground fault circuit interrupter electrically coupled to the branch circuit by creating a third pulse on the branch circuit that is effective to trip the ground fault circuit interrupter.

Abstract: A sonde includes an elongate flexible ferromagnetic core and a coil surrounds an intermediate segment of the core. A housing surrounds and supports the coil. An electronic drive circuit is mounted in the housing for supplying the coil with an electric signal that will induce the core to emit electromagnetic signals at a predetermined strength and frequency that can be remotely detected. Self-contained battery powered float-type and pill-type sondes are also disclosed.

Abstract: A detector 1 for detecting a buried current carrying conductor comprises a digital homodyne receiver. The receiver processes field strength signals induced in a pair of vertically spaced antennae 3, 5. The analogue to digital converter is an audio-grade stereo CODEC 11.

Abstract: An electrical continuity test system with a tester and a remote probe. The tester includes circuitry for creating a pulsed current, an output for connection to a local end of a first test conductive element, to inject the pulses into the first test conductive element, an input for connection to a local end of a second test conductive element, and a visual and/or aural indication when the injected pulses are present on the second test conductive element. The remote probe includes an input for connection to a remote end of a first unidentified conductive element, an output for connection to a remote end of a second unidentified conductive element, a first visual and/or aural indication when the first unidentified conductive element is the first test conductive element, and a different visual and/or aural indication when the first unidentified conductive element is the second test conductive element.

Abstract: An arrangement and an associated method are described in which a boring tool is moved through the ground within a given region along a path in which region a cable is buried. The boring tool and the cable transmit a boring tool locating signal and a cable locating signal, respectively. Intensities of the boring tool locating signal and the cable locating signal are measured along with a pitch orientation of the boring tool. Using the measured intensities and established pitch orientation, a positional relationship is determined to relative scale including at least the boring tool and the cable in the region. The positional relationship is displayed to scale in one view. The positional relationship may be determined and displayed including the forward locate point in scaled relation to the boring tool and the cable. Cable depth determination techniques are described including a two-point ground depth determination method.

Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of methods and systems for wireless data transmission by magnetic induction. In one embodiment, a network of magnetic induction units is provided. The units may be configured to transmit a data signal by modulation of a time-varying magnetic field. One or more units may also be configured to receive a data signal received from another magnetic induction unit. In one specific implementation, a network of underground magnetic induction units is provided, each having a sensor connected thereto. Each of the units, or a subset of the units, may be configured to transmit its sensed data to an adjacent or nearby unit, which, in turn, may retransmit the original data, along with additional appended data, to another adjacent unit. The network data may thereby be relayed in a multi-hop fashion until it reaches a desired destination.

Abstract: A method of locating a buried conductor such as a pipe uses an electronic transmitter to generate a signal having a predetermined frequency with is applied to the pipe via an alligator clip or other appropriate connector. A ground connection to the transmitter is established by connecting another alligator clip or other appropriate connector to a grounding sheet made of chain mail or metal cloth. A electrolyte solution is poured on the grounding sheet and/or around a portion of the surface region adjacent the grounding sheet. The signal that is re-radiated by the buried pipe is detected with a man portable locator which determines the location of the buried pipe and displays the same to a user.

Abstract: An exemplary metal detector includes a detecting circuit, a SCM, a converting circuit, and a cymometer. The SCM cooperates with the detecting circuit to generate a current signal with a specific frequency, the converting circuit transforms the current signal received from the SCM to a voltage signal, and the cymometer displays a value of a frequency of the current signal according to the voltage signal. When the detecting circuit detects a metal nearby, the value of the frequency of the current signal displayed on the cymometer changes.

Abstract: In a method for determining whether multiple power outlets in a 3-wire power line connection are connected to a same outer wire (P1 or P2), the hot terminal of a first power outlet is identified and a first zero cross time of the hot terminal to which AC voltage is applied is detected. The hot terminal of a second power outlet is identified, and second zero cross time of the hot terminal to which AC voltage is applied is detected. It is determined that the first power outlet and the second power outlet are connected to the same power line if the time elapsed ?T from the first zero cross time of the first power outlet to the second zero cross time of the second power outlet is an integral multiple of the AC voltage cycle.

Abstract: A method, device, and apparatus for tracing a conductive line and locating any concealed surveillance devices coupled to the line uses a signal generator to produce a test signal having a fundamental frequency which is coupled to the line under test. The test signal flowing through the line under test creates electromagnetic waves that propagate through the atmosphere away from the line. A portable locator probe is used to detect the radiated signal and thus the conductive line by detecting the magnitude of the radiated signal. As the locator probe is moved closer to the line, the amplitude of the detected signal increases. In addition, the portable locator probe detects harmonic signals radiated from nonlinear junctions coupled to the line at harmonic frequencies of the fundamental test signal.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to a wall scanner that includes a housing, a plurality of sensors, a display, and a control section. The housing includes a handle portion and a body portion. The handle portion is adapted to receive a removable and rechargeable battery pack such as a high-voltage lithium-ion (“Li-Ion”) battery pack. The body portion of the housing encloses the plurality of sensing devices, such as, for example, capacitive plate sensors for sensing the presence of a stud behind a surface, a D-coil sensor for identifying the presence of metal behind the surface, and a non-contact voltage sensor for detecting the presence of live wires carrying AC currents. The display is configured to display, among other things, the location of an object behind the surface in real-time, the depth of an object behind the surface, and whether an object behind the surface is ferrous or non-ferrous.

Abstract: The invention is based on a locating device for locating objects in an item being investigated, said device having a basic body, a sensor unit for detecting a movement parameter when the basic body is moved relative to the item being investigated, an output unit and a control unit which, in conjunction with the output unit, is provided for the purpose of outputting an item of information on the basis of the movement parameter. It is proposed that the output unit has a light signal unit which is provided for the purpose of outputting the information using a light signal.

Abstract: A method for locating a device, which produces a field, with a probe assembly affected by the field. The method may involve: placing a device on a first side of a work piece; producing a field with the device through the work piece; using a robot to hold and to place a probe assembly adjacent a second side of the work piece; providing information from the probe assembly to the robot that is used by the robot to move the probe assembly to substantially determine a position of the device; determining a location of a center field axis of the field with the probe assembly; and providing a physical confirmation of the center field axis to a user.

Abstract: A magnetic indexer for locating a device producing a magnetic field in a blind or inaccessible position of a work piece. A magnet is initially placed on a first side of the work piece such that a magnetic field produced by the magnet extends through the work piece and substantially perpendicular to a surface of the work piece. A device comprising a plurality of probes for sensing magnetic fields is then positioned over a second surface of the work piece. The probes are then moved over the second surface to determine the location of the axis of the magnet via the strength of the sensed magnetic field. Once the position of the axis of the magnet is determined, the work surface is either marked or worked on through the platform on which the probes are positioned. In particular, a hole may be accurately drilled or otherwise formed directly over the magnet even when the first surface of the work piece cannot be seen.

Abstract: A method and system for improving power distribution and/or current measurement on a printed circuit board is disclosed. According to the invention, a first power plane adapted for current measurement includes a first segment to which a current source is connected and a second segment to which other devices may be connected, forming the current load. A third segment is used to measure the current between the first segment and the second segment through two vias that link two points of the third segment to, preferably, two pads of the external layer. In a preferred embodiment, vias are connected to the first segment so that current flow in the third segment is linear, to improve and simplify current determination. The resistivity between the pair of vias may be computed or estimated using calibrated currents.

Abstract: A method for the detection of objects embedded in building structure subgrades such as cable, concrete reinforcing bars, conduit pipe and the like as well as a hand-operated sensor with an adaptive detection threshold operating according to the method, is disclosed. To reduce an over-detection with the adaptation of the detection threshold, a change in the direction of movement of the sensor being guided over the surface area is recorded with respect to an embedded object. The determination of a change in the direction of movement preferably takes place by measuring the sensor acceleration in two directions with respect to the embedded object. Corresponding speeds are computed at least as estimates from the acceleration values in order to generate a conclusion about a reversal of the direction of movement.

Abstract: In a method for detecting objects enclosed in a medium, a measurement signal correlated with an enclosed object is measured and used to generate a second signal, which reflects the measured signal strength of the measurement signal in a segmented manner by associating intervals of the signal strength of the measurement signal with individual segment units of the second signal, and the threshold values of the individual segment units of the second signal are varied depending on the measured signal strength of the measurement signal.

Abstract: A sensor for locating metallic objects, in particular a metal sensor for building materials, includes at least one transmission coil and at least one reception conductor loop system that are inductively coupled to one another. The reception conductor loop system is made up of conductor structures on a printed circuit board. A second reception conductor loop system can be provided, which is situated coaxial to the first reception conductor loop system in a common first plane with it on the printed circuit board. The sensor preferably operates in a frequency range between 1 kHz and 10 kHz.

Abstract: A portable self-standing electromagnetic (EM) field sensing locator system with attachments for finding and mapping buried objects such as utilities and with intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) displays. Accessories include a ground penetrating radar (GPR) system with a rotating Tx/Rx antenna assembly, a leak detection system, a multi-probe voltage mapping system, a man-portable laser-range finder system with embedded dipole beacon and other detachable accessory sensor systems are accepted for attachment to the locator system for simultaneous operation in cooperation with the basic locator system. The integration of the locator system with one or more additional devices, such as fault-finding, geophones and conductance sensors, facilitates the rapid detection and localization of many different types of buried objects.

Abstract: Portable locators are disclosed for finding and mapping buried objects such as utilities. A articulatable antenna node configuration and the use of Doppler radar and GPS navigation are also disclosed.

Abstract: An underground digital locating system includes a receiver capable of acquiring a signal produced by an underground object and displaying a digital representation of the orientation of underground object and of its depth. The system includes a carrying case for the digital locating receiver, the carrying case further including a transmitter for energizing underground objects to emit a magnetic field. A method of locating an underground object using the described system is also disclosed, as well as methods of measuring a flux field and translating a flux field signal of an underground object into a visual representation of the underground object on the display screen of the locating receiver.

Abstract: Planishing or stress relief in a welded joint (34) is accomplished with a hammer (12) and a backing bar (26). The hammer is applied on a first side (1) to a first surface (31) of the structure (30). To indicate the proper position of the backing bar, a first magnet (20; 320) is associated with the hammer, and a magnetic sensor arrangement (24; 224; 300) is located on the other side (2) of the structure. In one embodiment, the sensor arrangement is a second magnet (24) which is held in place by the magnetic field (40) of the first magnet. In a second embodiment, the sensor includes a line array (262) of individual sensors, each associated with an indicator of a line array (264) of indicators. In a third embodiment, the sensor includes a line array (300) of two magnetic sensors, which are coupled to a differential indicator (324).

Abstract: A portable locator and method for establishing the location of the cable line in a region which includes at least one generally straight electrically conductive cable line extending across the region from which cable line a locating signal includes a first arrangement for measuring a local flux intensity of the locating signal at a first above ground point within the region with the portable locator in a particular orientation at the first above ground point. A second arrangement uses the local flux intensity to establish a cable line angular orientation which limits the possible directions to the cable line relative to the particular orientation of the portable locator at the above ground point. A third arrangement uses the measured local flux intensity to establish an actual direction of the cable line that is selected from the possible directions based on certain characteristics of the locating signal.

Abstract: An implementation of a system, device and method for projecting a visual indicator against a surface is provided. A display projection system in a handheld sensor device (e.g. a handheld wall scanner) projects a static or computer-controlled dynamic pattern of light onto a surface being scanned to indicate a specific feature, such as existence of solid structures of wood, metal or plastic, electric or magnetic fields, or a disturbance of a field. The projected light may be controlled by a computer via an aperture to allow flexibility in what is projected, such as icons, lines, graphics, characters and colors.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for detecting objects (12) that are enclosed in a medium (10). According to said method, a test signal (18) that makes it possible to obtain information about the position of the enclosed object (12) is generated via at least one transmission coil (14) and at least one receiving conductor loop system (16) which are inductively coupled to each other. The frequency (fM) of the test signal (UM) is modified in accordance with the signal intensity of the detected test signal (18). The invention further relates to a measuring apparatus, especially a hand-held locating device (24, 124), for carrying out the disclosed method.

Abstract: Methods for detecting and classifying loads on alternating current (AC) lines are provided. One such method includes the steps of placing an AC field sensor in AC electric and magnetic fields generated by an AC line, generating an electric field signal representative of the AC electric field received by the AC field sensor, generating a magnetic field signal representative of the AC magnetic field received by the AC field sensor, generating a relative phase signal representative of relative phase changes between the electric and magnetic fields, and processing the relative phase signal to detect and classify loads on the AC line. In another method, relative load vector signals representative of relative magnitude and phase changes in the magnetic field are generated and processed to detect and classify loads on the AC line.

Abstract: A self-supporting apparatus and method for locating a stud in a wall and providing a hands-free laser-level with visible indication of the stud includes a body and a rare earth magnet attached to the body. A battery-operated laser assembly is attached to the device and emits a laser-line that is visible on a surface of a wall when it is energized. A means for leveling the laser is attached to the body to align or indicate when the laser-line is plumb or disposed at an angle with respect to vertical.

Abstract: A method for locating objects enclosed in a medium, comprising the steps of generating a measurement signal correlated with an enclosed object; using the generated measurement signal to produce a signal which represents a difference between at least a first state which is “object detected” and at least a second state which is “no object detected”; switching from the first state “object detected” to the second state “no object detected” if a magnitude of the measurement signal being measured currently falls below a previously measured local maximum value of the measurement signal by a predefined first percentage.

Abstract: An implementation of an apparatus and method for sensing electrical wiring, for example, hidden behind a surface such as a wall is provided. The apparatus and method use multiple sensor signals, which may measure electric fields or changes in a dielectric. Pairs of signals are combined and compared to a sensed reference signal. Multiple sensors help in determining a direction or gradient to electrical wiring. Combining or averaging sensed signal before comparing the combined signal to a reference single helps to make the detection of electrical wiring less dependent on the relative orientation between the sensor and the electrical wiring.

Abstract: An arrangement and an associated method are described in which a boring tool is moved through the ground within a given region along a path in which region a cable is buried. The boring tool and the cable transmit a boring tool locating signal and a cable locating signal, respectively. Intensities of the boring tool locating signal and the cable locating signal are measured along with a pitch orientation of the boring tool. Using the measured intensities and established pitch orientation, a positional relationship is determined to relative scale including at least the boring tool and the cable in the region. The positional relationship is displayed to scale in one view. The positional relationship may be determined and displayed including the forward locate point in scaled relation to the boring tool and the cable. Cable depth determination techniques are described including a two-point ground depth determination method.

Abstract: A pulse induction metal detector having high efficiency and sensitivity. Within the scope of the invention is a high efficiency hand-held metal detector for detecting a metal object, comprising a coil and a source of current flow in the coil. The source is adapted to produce one or more pulses of current in the coil. Preferably, at least two of the pulses are spaced apart in time at least about 20 microseconds during which current flow in the coil is substantially constant. The metal detector also comprises a detecting circuit for detecting a response to the current pulses, and a sampling circuit for sampling the response at predetermined times at least during the time of one of the pulses.

Abstract: A system for detecting a buried conductor comprises a transmitter for producing an alternating test current in the buried conductor and a receiver for detecting an electromagnetic field produced by the test current in the buried conductor. A communication link is provided between the receiver and the transmitter. The receiver measures the signal to noise ratio, SNR, of the electromagnetic field produced by the test current and if the SNR is below a threshold then the receiver controls the transmitter to set frequency and/or power characteristics of the test current.

Abstract: A system for detecting a buried conductor comprises a transmitter for producing an alternating test current in the buried conductor and a receiver for detecting an electromagnetic field produced by the test current in the buried conductor. A communication link is provided between the receiver and the transmitter. The test current comprises first and second components of different frequency. The receiver monitors the phase creepage of the first and second components and controls the transmitter to reset the phase difference between the first and second components as phase creepage increases.

Abstract: A detector for calculating a depth of a buried conductor comprises a plurality of antennas B, M T for detecting an electromagnetic field radiated by the conductor and means for calculating the depth of said conductor based on the field detected by the antennas B, M, T. The calculated depth of the conductor is displayed when one or more predetermined criteria are satisfied.

Abstract: A multi-scanner device having a detection unit and an outlet tester that can be selectively connected together for convenient use and easy storage. Preferably, a plug on the outlet tester is inserted into a non-functional socket located on the detection unit to form a multi-scanner device with a detachable outlet tester.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention can provide systems, methods, and apparatus for providing a capacitance paddle for measuring capacitance in a stator component such as a stator bar. In one embodiment, a system for measuring capacitance can include an output device operable to measure capacitance in an object. Furthermore, the system can include at least three contacts operable to mount to the object to be sensed. In addition, the system can include at least one conductive material operable to mount to the object to be sensed. Moreover, the system can include a compressible material adjacent to at least some of the at least three contacts and the at least one conductive material, wherein the compressible material can be compressed to permit the contacts to simultaneously contact the object to be sensed, and wherein the output device can output a measure of capacitance associated with the object.

Abstract: An underground digital locating system includes a receiver capable of acquiring a signal produced by an underground object and displaying a digital representation of the orientation of underground object and of its depth. The system includes a carrying case for the digital locating receiver, the carrying case further including a transmitter for energizing underground objects to emit a magnetic field. A method of locating an underground object using the described system is also disclosed, as well as methods of measuring a flux field and translating a flux field signal of an underground object into a visual representation of the underground object on the display screen of the locating receiver.

Abstract: A digital toner/locator employs tone packets using a 455 Khz carrier. Plural packet quanta provide multiple test modes which are advantageously selected from a probe without requiring returning to the tone generator to change mode.

Abstract: A compact line illuminator for applying an oscillating signal to buried or otherwise inaccessible pipes, cables and conductors so that their location can be traced by detecting an electromagnetic signal emitted by these buried objects. The illuminator includes a circuit for generating a signal suitable for tracing a buried conductor and a holder for a portable power source that can energize the circuit. First and second leads each have a first end connected to the circuit and a second end connected to a corresponding mechanism such as an alligator clip for attaching to a buried conductor. A case encloses the circuit and the portable power source holder and is configured for having the first and second leads wrapped around an exterior of the case. Mechanisms are provided for holding the leads wrapped around the exterior of the case.

Abstract: A handheld device providing an internal view through an obscuring wall or other obscuring surfaces of hidden structural or facilities elements (such as wooden studs, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC), or the absence thereof. A continuous and homogeneous luminescent gas or other visual display material whose optical characteristics change as a result of the applied electric field is used both to simultaneously detect capacitance changes associated with hidden objects and to display those detected those objects. Different types of chambers are disclosed for the gas as well as means to prevent fringing effects. The gas is held just at its ionization level at which point it becomes optically visible. Circuitry is disclosed for controlling the energy source based on current draw or light output of the gas and feedback circuitry is disclosed to neutralize the effects of ambient light. Also disclosed is a device and method for the detection and mapping of electric fields.

Abstract: When a first cable is driven at a locating signal frequency to emit a locating signal, the locating signal can be coupled to a second cable to cause the second cable to generate a false locating signal. As part of discriminating the false signal from the locating signal, the locating signal is generated at the locating signal frequency and phase shifted to produce a phase shifted locating signal frequency. A reference signal is impressed with the phase shifted locating signal frequency. A coupling configuration couples the locating signal frequency onto the first cable to generate the locating signal subject to a coupling configuration phase shift. The phase shifted locating signal, as part of the reference signal, can compensate for the coupling configuration phase shift in the locating signal as emitted by the first cable.