Underground Object Location Patents (Class 342/459)
  • Patent number: 11831855
    Abstract: A 360-degree video data processing method performed by a 360-degree video reception apparatus, according to the present invention, comprises the steps of: receiving 360-degree video data; deriving metadata and information on an encoded picture for a specific viewing position in specific viewing space based on the 360-degree video data; decoding the encoded picture based on the information on the encoded picture; rendering the decoded picture based on the metadata; and displaying a viewport in a 360-degree video generated based on the rendering, wherein the viewport includes a mini-map representing the specific viewing space, and wherein a shape of the mini-map is derived as a shape corresponding to a shape type of the specific viewing space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Hyunmook Oh, Sejin Oh
  • Patent number: 11327103
    Abstract: A method, an apparatus and a system that may be configured to determine and provide a direction-to-source indicator on a signal level meter or other test instrument that may be used by a user of the meter (e.g., a technician, maintenance personnel or other personnel) to locate the source of leakage such as home leakage (HL).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2022
    Assignee: VIAVI SOLUTIONS INC.
    Inventors: Marius-Laurentiu Piper, Bogdan Enciu
  • Patent number: 11250601
    Abstract: A Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) assisted dielectric imaging method is provided. The method used CNN to incorporate the abundant image information from Magnetic Resonance (MR) images into the inverse scattering model-based microwave imaging process and generate high-fidelity dielectric images. A CNN is designed and trained to learn the complex mapping function from MR T1 images to dielectric images. Once trained, the new patients' MR T1 images are fed into the CNN to generate predicted dielectric images, which are used as the starting image for the microwave inverse scattering imaging. The CNN-predicted dielectric image significantly reduces the non-linearity and ill-posedness of the inverse scattering problem. The application of the proposed method to recover human brain dielectric images at 4 mm and 2 mm resolution with single-frequency and multi-frequency microwave measurements is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: University of Southern California
    Inventors: Guanbo Chen, Mahta Moghaddam, Pratik Shah, John Stang
  • Patent number: 10358796
    Abstract: A system for an excavating machine includes a control system comprising a processing system, one or more sensors, a user interface, and a vision system, wherein the control system receives input signals from the user interface, the one or more sensors, and the vision system; and a motor in communication with the control system and the motor adapted to control movement of a portion of the excavating machine. The processing system can control operation of the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Assignee: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel W. Robertson, Julian D. Jaeger, Robert Eidenberger
  • Patent number: 9945095
    Abstract: A control system of an excavating machine controls the excavating machine including a work machine, and includes a communication unit communicating with an outside of the excavating machine and receiving construction information related to an object to be excavated that is excavated by the work machine, a storage unit storing the construction information received by the communication unit, a work machine control unit executing excavation control to control an operation of the work machine not to erode the object to be excavated based on position of the work machine and the construction information stored, and a processing unit determining whether updating construction information to be used by the work machine control unit for the excavation control to the new construction information received by the communication unit according to a control state of the work machine by the work machine control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Daiki Arimatsu, Azumi Nomura
  • Patent number: 9091712
    Abstract: Signal ingress at an installations site forming a part of a broadband communication system is quantitatively evaluated for resistance to signal ingress using a computed ambient broadcast signal level based on a known location and effective radiated power of one or more transmitters. Anomalies due to signal path obstruction and/or multi-path reception are compensated by performing computations for a plurality of broadcast transmitters located in different directions from the installation site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: ComSonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis A. Zimmerman, Joseph R. Early, Marc-Yvon Comeau
  • Patent number: 8922431
    Abstract: The invention relate to a collision avoidance apparatus (100, 200, 300, 22), system (10) and method (500). The apparatus (100, 200, 300, 22) includes a UHF (Ultra High Frequency) transceiver (102) operable to send and receive UHF signals in electric field (E-field) mode, a VLF (Very Low frequency) transceiver (104) operable to send and receive VLF signals in magnetic field (H-field) mode, and a SHF (Super High Frequency) transceiver (106) operable to send and receive SHF signals in electric field (E-field) mode. The apparatus (100, 200, 300, 22) further includes a control module (110) operable to direct the operation of the respective transceivers (102, 104, 106), thereby to detect receipt of a signal via at least one of the transceivers (102, 104, 106), and determine whether or not an alert is to be issued, based on the nature of the received signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Becker Research and Development (Proprietary) Limited
    Inventor: Michael Volta Bruno
  • Patent number: 8775083
    Abstract: A system and method of mapping underground utilities and other subsurface objects involves one or more of acquiring utility location data using a number of different detectors and sensors, processing the multiple detector/sensor output data to produce mapping data, storing the mapping data in a database, and providing access to and use of the stored mapping data by subscribing users on a usage fee basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Gary Neal Young, Kevin L. Alft
  • Patent number: 8436741
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Reiner Krapf, Michael Mahler, Christoph Wieland, Ulli Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 8358809
    Abstract: A pattern recognizer includes a sequential data extractor, a data pairer, and a recognition engine. The sequential data extractor extracts a region of measured data obtained from a measuring device. The measuring device is preferably capable of detecting changes in impedance. The measured data should contain position information of the changes in impedance. The data pairer associates the region of measured data with a priori pattern data that contains expected positions of the changes in impedance. The recognition engine decides whether the associated region of measured data and the a priori pattern data differ within predetermined criteria, the predetermined criteria including: non-expected impedance changes; excessive dither; and missing impedance changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Hintz, James Corey Wright
  • Patent number: 8269669
    Abstract: The invention involves one or more radio markers (1) being located on or buried in the seabed with a suitable tool at a location where a geographical point requires to be retrieved. Radio markers may be deployed, for example, by means of a subsea vehicle (2). The subsea vehicle (2) is equipped with a positioning system and gyro (6) when the radio markers (1) are deployed, thereby enabling the approximate position of each individual radio marker (1) to be recorded with global map position. A subsea vehicle equipped with a radio antenna detects radio markers after returning to the approximate position by means of the coordinates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: Bjarte Langeland
  • Patent number: 8144058
    Abstract: A system and method for generating a geographical data transaction including information about a topography of a region and utilities within the region. The method and system include providing information about the topography of the region; receiving information from a user collecting data related to one or more utilities in the region; receiving information about time and date of the collected data; receiving information about each of the utilities; and receiving information about location of each of the utilities. The system and method further include receiving information about revisions made to the information about the map; and integrating the received information with the information about the topography of the region into a geographical data transaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Global Precision Solutions, LLP.
    Inventors: Tom Y. Sawyer, Jr., Mark Beckner, Page Tucker, Scott Austin Jones
  • Patent number: 8081112
    Abstract: A method and apparatus, including software, for the development and operational use of precise utility location and utility asset management information. Field-usable data sets may be produced that meet standards of accuracy and usability that are sufficient for use by field operations personnel participating in damage prevention activities associated with ground penetrating projects (e.g., excavating, trenching, boring, driving, and tunneling) or other asset applications. Some embodiments relate to integrating utility asset data including coordinate location, and geographical information data using a consistently available and accurate coordinates reference for collecting the data and for aligning the geographical information data. Some embodiments relate to managing projects with equipment that provides real time images and the updating of the data as required with this desired accuracy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Global Precision Solutions, LLP.
    Inventors: Layne D. Tucker, John Lepper, Daniel E. Colby, Page Tucker, Tom Y. Sawyer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7952363
    Abstract: Issuance of work orders in response to monitoring signal egress from shielding integrity flaws in a cable communication system by detecting received signal strength from a mobile receiver only during rising trends in received signal strength when the mobile receiver is in motion and tracking the maximum received signal strength peak during each rising trend. Rising trends are detected by computing two rolling averages of received signal strength sample of different lengths and offset from each other and applying a threshold to the difference between the rolling averages to provide hysteresis in switching between rising and falling trend detection. Reported peaks are then compared by proximity to each other and their circle of influence determined in accordance with respective signal strengths to determine if newly reported peaks are duplicates of previously reported peaks and duplicate reported peaks are removed or discarded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: ComSonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Gregory Jones, Joseph Roy Early
  • Patent number: 7821424
    Abstract: An asset is located in a facility via triangulation. When the user enters the facility with the asset, the user receives a base and code from a base/code booth. The code may be stored on a removable card. The user secures the asset by entering the code. While the user is away from the facility, the base is monitored for movement detected by the motion sensor. When the user returns to the facility, a locator panel displays the location of the asset determined by triangulation using the locators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Yen-Fu Chen, Randolph Michael Forlenza, John Paul Kaemmerer, Raghuraman Kalyanaraman
  • Patent number: 7791502
    Abstract: The present invention is a method for locating an asset in a facility. An example of an asset is a vehicle and an example of a facility is a parking facility. When the user enters the facility with the asset, the user receives a base and code from a base/code booth. The code may be stored on a removable card. The user secures the asset by entering the code. While the user is away from the facility, the present invention monitors the base for movement detected by the motion sensor. When the user returns to the facility, a locator panel displays the location of the asset. The present invention determines the location of the asset by triangulation using the locators. The user then returns to the asset, deactivates the motion sensor, returns the base and code to a base/code booth, pays for the storage services, and exits the facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Yen-Fu Chen, Randolph Michael Forlenza, John Paul Kaemmerer, Raghuraman Kalyanaraman
  • Publication number: 20090255730
    Abstract: Specific apparatus and associated methods are described for use in establishing the positions of locating field detectors and for path mapping within a region for the purpose of tracking and/or guiding the movement of an underground boring tool. In one aspect, an improvement is provided forming part of an arrangement for tracking the position and/or guiding the boring tool using an electromagnetic locating signal which is transmitted from the boring tool as the boring tool moves through the ground. At least two detectors are located at fixed positions within the region, each being operable in a transmit mode and in a receive mode such that each one of the detectors in the transmit mode is able to transmit a relative locating signal to the other detector for use in determining the relative position of one detector in relation to the other and such that both detectors receive the electromagnetic locating signal in the receive mode for use in determining the position of the boring tool within the region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, Peter H. Hambling, John E. Mercer, Lloyd A. Moore, Shiu S. Ng, Rudolf Zeller
  • Patent number: 7360124
    Abstract: The invention provides an autonomous geo-referenced fault data detection, storage and management system and method for transmission line network such as cable distribution networks, based on an application server architecture, wherein autonomous means automatic and without the need of human intervention. The system comprises a server having a database and a network interface adapted to be linked to a communication network, the network interface for receiving and relaying data to the server, the data comprising at least one of fault data and management data, the fault data comprising at least one of geo-referenced ingress data and geo-referenced egress data and the management data comprising at least one of user data, administrator data and fault status data, the server autonomously updating the database by incorporating the relayed data in the database to provide a stored data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Viasat Geo-Technologie Inc.
    Inventor: Magella Bouchard
  • Patent number: 7350594
    Abstract: A system for determining the location of and communicating with a downhole tool assembly. A tracker assembly comprises a vertical transmitting antenna, a plurality of receiving antennas, and a processor. The downhole tool assembly has a beacon assembly comprising a plurality of receiving antennas, a transmitting antenna, an orientation sensor, and a processor. The transmitter in the tracker transmits a substantially vertical dipole field. The beacon assembly detects the vertical field and processes the signals to determine the location of the beacon relative to the tracker. The beacon assembly transmits the beacon location and operational information to the tracker assembly. The tracker assembly displays the beacon location and operational information on a visual display. The tracker assembly may also transmit operational commands or requests for information to the beacon assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott B. Cole, Bradley S. Marshall, Michael R. Campbell
  • Patent number: 7342537
    Abstract: A detector 1 for detecting a current carrying conductor determines the presence of a current carrying conductor one or more of passive or active modes. In the passive modes, the detector 1 detects either very low frequency radio signals re-radiated from a conductor or electromagnetic radiation produced by a conductor as a result of mains voltage carried in the conductor, or in a nearby conductor. In the active mode, an alternating signal from a dedicated signal generator is coupled into the buried conductor. Signals are induced in a pair of antennae 3, 5 in the detector 1, and the signals are processed in each of these modes simultaneously. The outputs of each of the modes are convolved to produce an audio and/or visual alert if a current carrying conductor is detected by any of these modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Radiodetection Limited
    Inventors: Richard Pearson, Steve Benzie
  • Patent number: 7319387
    Abstract: A system for locating a position marker includes a locating device for locating the position marker, and a GPS device communicatively coupled to the locating device that provides GPS coordinate data when the position marker is located by the locating device. Electronic memory is provided in at least one of the locating device and the GPS device for storing a data record associating the GPS coordinate data with the located position marker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: 3M Innovaative Properties Company
    Inventors: Corey M. Willson, Ziyad Hanna Doany, Timothy A. Parkinson
  • Patent number: 7150331
    Abstract: A system for determining the location of and communicating with a downhole tool assembly. A tracker assembly comprises a vertical transmitting antenna, a plurality of receiving antennas, and a processor. The downhole tool assembly has a beacon assembly comprising a plurality of receiving antennas, a transmitting antenna, an orientation sensor, and a processor. The transmitter in the tracker transmits a substantially vertical dipole field. The beacon assembly detects the vertical field and processes the signals to determine the location of the beacon relative to the tracker. The beacon assembly transmits the beacon location and operational information to the tracker assembly. The tracker assembly displays the beacon location and operational information on a visual display. The tracker assembly may also transmit operational commands or requests for information to the beacon assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott B. Cole, Bradley S. Marshall, Michael R. Campbell
  • Patent number: 6937190
    Abstract: A passive geophysical prospecting method and apparatus are provided. The apparatus has an antenna for detecting electromagnetic radiation naturally emanating from the Earth's surface and generating an electrical signal from the detected electromagnetic radiation while traversing the Earth's surface by a vehicle traveling over land or water or in an airplane. The electrical signal is filtered of frequencies below 65 Hz, preferably above 100 Hz and more preferably below 800 Hz, and above 12,000 Hz, preferably above 8,000 Hz, to generate a filtered signal. The filtered signal is converted to a prospecting voltage signal. The prospecting voltage signal is then compared to a set voltage and a difference signal is generated, recorded and analyzed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: John R. Jackson
  • Publication number: 20040207555
    Abstract: Provided is a Doppler based automated direction finding system that detects radio frequency (RF) leaks in a cable television plant. During a ride-out, the system detects leaks and stores leak data, such as amplitude, location, and bearing. The stored data is uploaded to a computer that performs a leak analysis. The leak analysis isolates the leaks using Doppler-based bearing information and separates cable leaks from other RF sources, such as power sources and noise. Erroneous information that results from RF reflections (multi path) may be eliminated while processing the data using triangulation. After the leak analysis, the computer generates work orders and maps, makes the data available to users, and may also compile information and file reports based on the data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Applicant: Cable leakage Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Eckenroth, Michael E. Ostteen
  • Publication number: 20040070535
    Abstract: At least one antenna array including three mutually orthogonal antennas each sharing a common center point senses an electromagnetic signal emitted by a buried object such as a utility line, pipe or sonde. A circuit at least partially mounted in a housing is connected to the array and determines a location of the buried object by measuring signal strength and field angles in three dimensions without having to align the antenna array relative to the buried object while eliminating nulls and false peaks. A graphical user interface (GUI) has user-friendly icons, symbols, menus, numbers and graphical and auditory representation of signal strength. A plurality of different underground objects can be simultaneously detected and their different locations can be simultaneously indicated to a user via audible sounds and/or visual images on a display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Mark S. Olsson, Jeffrey Prsha, Dawn Shaffer, Ray Merewether, Michael J. Martin, Bradley D. Barnicoat, David A. Cox, Thomas R. Kolb
  • Patent number: 6668944
    Abstract: Specific methods are described for use in tracking and/or guiding the movement of an underground boring tool. In one aspect, an improvement is provided forming part of an arrangement for tracking the position and/or guiding the boring tool using an electromagnetic locating signal which is transmitted from the boring tool as the boring tool moves through the ground. At least two detectors are located at fixed positions within the region, each being operable in a transmit mode and in a receive mode such that each one of the detectors in the transmit mode is able to transmit a relative locating signal to the other detector for use in determining the relative position of one detector in relation to the other and such that both detectors receive the electromagnetic locating signal in the receive mode for use in determining the position of the boring tool within the region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Merlin Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, Peter H. Hambling, John E. Mercer, Lloyd A. Moore, Shiu S. Ng, Rudolf Zeller
  • Patent number: 6650293
    Abstract: To locate a buried conveyance (10), electromagnetic signaling information is collected at spaced intervals along the conveyance with the aid of a locating device (14). A processor (21) receives such information from the locating device (14) and then geographically orders the information in accordance with the geographic coordinates of the location at which it was obtained. Once geographically ordered, the information is then provided on a display (22) to provide a visual representation of the information as a function of the conveyance length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: AT&T Corp.
    Inventors: Hossein Eslambolchi, Charles C. Giddens, John Sinclair Huffman, Harold Jeffrey Stewart
  • Patent number: 6587079
    Abstract: A system for locating an object that produces identifying signals comprises a plurality of receiver sites arranged in an array for receiving signals from the object and for receiving a common time reference in the form signals received from a global navigation system. The array comprises a reference receiver site and three auxiliary receiver sites that are connected to the reference site by data links. Each receiver site receives signals from the object and timing control signals from a global navigation system. Each site determines a time difference between the receipt of the object signals and the timing signals, the auxiliary sites providing data signals on data links to the reference site where the location of the object is determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Roke Manor Research Limited
    Inventors: David Charles Rickard, James William Horne
  • Patent number: 6549012
    Abstract: Most mines and underground facilities employ standardized construction techniques and materials. Such also cannot avoid having some above ground openings to receive utilities, fresh air, supplies, etc. Those or other surface openings are also universally used to discharge ground water, wastes, and other materials. Typical underground facilities have abundant electrical wiring and power demands, both of which can be detected at the surface. Levees with leakage pathways also form electrical conductors. When properly illuminated with remotely generated electromagnetic (EM) radiation, many of these features will “glow” or reradiate the radio energy in an electronic signature unique to the underground facility. Synchronized EM-gradiometer transponders are situated nearby on the ground surface to collect and analyze the “glow”. Alternative transmitting devices further includes ways to generate the illumination, and computers for characterizing the return signatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: Larry G. Stolarczyk
  • Patent number: 6538616
    Abstract: The present invention is an antenna with a cubic core. A first conductor is wound around the core's first axis. A first dielectric layer is placed around the first conductor. A first electrical shield is placed around the first dielectric layer. A second dielectric layer is placed around the first electrical shield. A second conductor is wound around the second dielectric layer in the core's second axis. A second electrical shield is placed around the third dielectric layer. A fourth dielectric layer is placed around the second electrical shield. A third conductor is wound around the fourth dielectric layer in the core's third plane. A fifth dielectric layer is placed around the third conductor. A third electrical shield is placed around the fifth dielectric layer. Each conductor is connected to an amplifier. Each amplifier is connected to an anti-aliasing filter. Each anti-aliasing filter is connected to an analog-to-digital converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the National Security Agency
    Inventor: Fernand D. Bedard
  • Patent number: 6536538
    Abstract: Specific apparatus and associated methods are described for use in establishing the positions of locating field detectors and for path mapping within a region for the purpose of tracking and/or guiding the movement of an underground boring tool. In one aspect, an improvement is provided forming part of an arrangement for tracking the position and/or guiding the boring tool using an electromagnetic locating signal which is transmitted from the boring tool as the boring tool moves through the ground. At least two detectors are located at fixed positions within the region, each being operable in a transmit mode and in a receive mode such that each one of the detectors in the transmit mode is able to transmit a relative locating signal to the other detector for use in determining the relative position of one detector in relation to the other and such that both detectors receive the electromagnetic locating signal in the receive mode for use in determining the position of the boring tool within the region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Digital Control Incorporated
    Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, Peter H. Hambling, John E. Mercer, Lloyd A. Moore, Shiu S. Ng, Rudolf Zeller
  • Patent number: 6457537
    Abstract: A portable mapping tool for use in a horizontal drilling system and associated methods use a boring tool configured for transmitting a locating signal. The mapping tool also includes at least one electromagnetic field detector which is configured for measuring the locating signal from a fixed position proximate to the surface of the ground in a drilling area. The mapping tool includes a housing and a transmitter arrangement supported by the housing for transmitting a setup locating signal for reception by the detector in the region for use in determining certain initial conditions at least prior to drilling. The associated mathods include the step of configuring the mapping tool for transmitting a setup locating signal for reception by the detector in the region and using the received setup locating signal in determining certain initial conditions at least prior to drilling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Digital Control Incorporated
    Inventors: John E. Mercer, Peter H. Hambling, Rudolf Zeller, Shiu S. Ng, Guenter W. Brune, Lloyd A. Moore
  • Patent number: 6454023
    Abstract: Systems and associated methods for tracking and/or guiding an underground boring tool use one or more detectors to measure the intensity of an electromagnetic field which is transmitted from an underground boring tool. The measured intensities may then be used to determine the location of the boring tool. In a dead reckoning embodiment of the invention, one detector may be employed while, in a position determination embodiment, two or more detectors may be employed. In any embodiment, physically measurable parameters may be used in addition to measured magnetic intensities. A highly advantageous mapping tool instrument for use in the position determination embodiment and a cubic antenna for use in any magnetic field detector are employed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Digital Control Incorporated
    Inventors: John E. Mercer, Peter H. Hambling, Rudolf Zeller, Shiu S. Ng, Guenter W. Brune, Lloyd A. Moore
  • Publication number: 20020079136
    Abstract: A portable mapping tool for use in a horizontal drilling system and associated methods use a boring tool configured for transmitting a locating signal. The mapping tool also includes at least one electromagnetic field detector which is configured for measuring the locating signal from a fixed position proximate to the surface of the ground in a drilling area. The mapping tool includes a housing and a transmitter arrangement supported by the housing for transmitting a setup locating signal for reception by the detector in the region for use in determining certain initial conditions at least prior to drilling. The associated methods include the step of configuring the mapping tool for transmitting a setup locating signal for reception by the detector in the region and using the received setup locating signal in determining certain initial conditions at least prior to drilling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: John E. Mercer, Peter H. Hambling, Rudolf Zeller, Shiu S. Ng, Guenter W. Brune, Lloyd A. Moore
  • Patent number: 6377872
    Abstract: A microwave imaging excavator for the detection, imaging and excavation of objects on or buried beneath the surface of the ground, such as metallic and dielectric land mines. A continuous wave stepped frequency ground penetrating radar signal is transmitted into the ground from a waveguide antenna mounted in one spade of a double spade auger. Direct breakthrough energy, signals reflected from the surface and the buried objects are received by an identical waveguide antenna mounted in the opposite spade. The spectra reflected from different buried objects become more distinct when the spectrum radiated spans the natural electromagnetic resonance of those objects. These signals are recorded as the twin-spaded auger is mechanically scanned over the ground in two mechanical rotational states of polarization. When the auger spades are on either side of a buried mine they are closed to grasp the mine which is then removed from the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration INC
    Inventor: Keith A. Struckman
  • Patent number: 6364035
    Abstract: Specific apparatus and associated methods are described for use in establishing the positions of locating field detectors and for path mapping within a region for the purpose of tracking and/or guiding the movement of an underground boring tool. In one aspect, an improvement is provided forming part of an arrangement for tracking the position and/or guiding the boring tool using an electromagnetic locating signal which is transmitted from the boring tool as the boring tool moves through the ground. At least two detectors are located at fixed positions within the region, each being operable in a transmit mode and in a receive mode such that each one of the detectors in the transmit mode is able to transmit a relative locating signal to the other detector for use in determining the relative position of one detector in relation to the other and such that both detectors receive the electromagnetic locating signal in the receive mode for use in determining the position of the boring tool within the region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Digital Control Incorporated
    Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, Peter H. Hambling, John E. Mercer, Lloyd A. Moore, Shiu S. Ng, Rudolf Zeller
  • Publication number: 20020030492
    Abstract: A unique time-domain electromagnetic system and data processing technique which, using low frequency electromagnetic fields, can localize, in three-dimensions, the position of buried metallic objects is disclosed. The measurement system uses time-domain electromagnetic techniques on a scanning frame similar to a X-Y plotter. The system collects magnetic data over a large area above the buried object. The spatial information of the field detected on the ground is then processed with an unique ‘nearfield holographic’ data processing method to reconstruct the field image of the buried object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventors: Yanping Guo, Harvey W. Ko, Carl V. Nelson, David M. White
  • Patent number: 6285190
    Abstract: Arrangements, specific apparatus and associated methods for skin depth compensation in underground boring applications are described. Compensation for skin depth error is accomplished by measuring a locating signal transmitted from a boring tool such that measurements of the locating signal include skin depth error introduced as a result of the electrical conductivity characteristic of the earth. Thereafter, the measurements are used in a way which determines a skin depth corrected position of the boring tool. In one aspect, a multi-frequency approach is provided which utilizes measured intensities of the locating field at two or more frequencies to extrapolate a zero frequency value of intensity. The zero frequency value of intensity is then used in position determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Digital Control Incorporated
    Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, John E. Mercer, Shiu S. Ng
  • Patent number: 6147480
    Abstract: A method for tracking an object using energy fields, in the presence of interference due to introduction of an article responsive to the fields, in the vicinity of the object. One or more desired energy fields are produced in the vicinity of the object, and a characteristic of energy fields induced due to introduction of the article is determined. Signals are generated responsive to the energy fields at a plurality of locations of the object after introduction of the article. Spatial coordinates of the object are determined, responsive to the generated signals and the determined characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Biosense, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Osadchy, Assaf Govari
  • Patent number: 6133869
    Abstract: A technique is provided for passively detecting the presence and location of an underground object. A plurality of individual antennas positioned in a linear array are directed to receive fields of view which are mutually parallel in azimuth. The linear array is then focused at a plurality of different angles in azimuth for passively acquiring low level random noise signals in the RF spectrum which are emitted by the underground object and by the intervening media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventor: Robert E. McGill
  • Patent number: 6097189
    Abstract: A portable system is provided that is operational for determining, with three dimensional resolution, the position of a buried object or a proximately positioned object that may move in space or air or gas. The system has a plurality of receivers for detecting the signal from a target antenna and measuring the phase thereof with respect to a reference signal. The relative permittivity and conductivity of the medium in which the object is located is used along with the measured phase signal to determine a distance between the object and each of the plurality of receivers. Knowing these distances, an iteration technique is provided for solving equations simultaneously to provide position coordinates. The system may also be used for tracking movement of an object within close range of the system by sampling and recording subsequent positions of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: G. Dickey Arndt, James R. Carl
  • Patent number: 6095260
    Abstract: Systems and associated methods for tracking and/or guiding an underground boring tool are disclosed. Each system or arrangement uses one or more detectors to measure the intensity of an electromagnetic field which is transmitted from an underground boring tool. The measured intensities may then be used to determine the location of the boring tool. In a dead reckoning embodiment of the invention, one detector may be employed while, in a position determination embodiment, two or more detectors may be employed. In any embodiment, physically measurable parameters may be used in addition to measured magnetic intensities. A highly advantageous mapping tool instrument and a cubic antenna are disclosed. The former for use in the position determination embodiment and the latter for use in any magnetic field detector employed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Digital Control Incorporated
    Inventors: John E. Mercer, Peter H. Hambling, Rudolf Zeller, Shiu S. Ng, Guenter W. Brune, Lloyd A. Moore
  • Patent number: 6084412
    Abstract: A unique time-domain electromagnetic system and data processing technique which, using low frequency electromagnetic fields, can localize, in three-dimensions, the position of buried metallic objects is disclosed. The measurement system uses time-domain electromagnetic techniques on a scanning frame similar to a X-Y plotter. The system collects magnetic data over a large area above the buried object. The spatial information of the field detected on the ground is then processed with an unique `nearfield holographic` data processing method to reconstruct the field image of the buried object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Yanping Guo, Harvey W. Ko, Carl V. Nelson, David M. White
  • Patent number: 6075481
    Abstract: The exact position of a work location (24) is mapped by the aid of at least three differential Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) receivers (12, 14, and 16) situated proximate the work location. Each of the differential Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) receivers establishes its own exact position and transmits that information to a spatial positioning system receiver (18) at the work location that determines its position from the position of the individual differential Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) receivers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: AT&T Corp
    Inventors: Hossein Eslambolchi, John Sinclair Huffman
  • Patent number: 6047783
    Abstract: Systems and associated methods for tracking and/or guiding an underground boring tool are disclosed. Each system or arrangement uses one or more detectors to measure the intensity of an electromagnetic field which is transmitted from an underground boring tool. The measured intensities may then be used to determine the location of the boring tool. In a dead reckoning embodiment of the invention, one detector may be employed while, in a position determination embodiment, two or more detectors may be employed. In any embodiment, physically measurable parameters may be used in addition to measured magnetic intensities. A highly advantageous mapping tool instrument and a cubic antenna are disclosed. The former for use in the position determination embodiment and the latter for use in any magnetic field detector employed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Digital Control Incorporated
    Inventors: John E. Mercer, Peter H. Hambling, Rudolf Zeller, Shiu S. Ng, Guenter W. Brune, Lloyd A. Moore
  • Patent number: 6035951
    Abstract: Systems and associated methods for tracking and/or guiding an underground boring tool are disclosed. Each system or arrangement uses one or more detectors to measure the intensity of an electromagnetic field which is transmitted from an underground boring tool. The measured intensities may then be used to determine the location of the boring tool. In a dead reckoning embodiment of the invention, one detector may be employed while, in a position determination embodiment, two or more detectors may be employed. In any embodiment, physically measurable parameters may be used in addition to measured magnetic intensities. A highly advantageous mapping tool instrument and a cubic antenna are disclosed. The former for use in the position determination embodiment and the latter for use in any magnetic field detector employed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Digital Control Incorporated
    Inventors: John E. Mercer, Peter H. Hambling, Rudolf Zeller, Shiu S. Ng, Guenter W. Brune, Lloyd A. Moore
  • Patent number: 6023986
    Abstract: The present invention includes a pipeline feature or defect location system including an in-line inspection tool, an inertial navigation system (INS), control points for use with a global positioning system (GPS) and an INS, and a computer programmed with post processing software. Once the longitude, latitude and elevation of the pipeline feature or defect is identified using the in-line inspection system of this invention. The longitude latitude, and elevation of the pipeline feature or defect can be identified by the INS. An efficient method for improving the accuracy of the identified longitude, latitude and elevation of the pipeline feature or defect is by adjusting the geographic coordinates to those determined by using a GPS.Data collected from the pipeline feature or defect location system may be incorporated into geographic information service software.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Jim W. K. Smith, Burn Ross Hay
  • Patent number: 6005518
    Abstract: A cable leakage detection system to be placed in a moving vehicle for monitoring signals leaking from a coaxial cable network. AM and FM RF detectors are combined with a global positioning system, a microprocessor, a storage device, a display device, and an antenna to unambiguously measure the radio frequency signal strength of an RF leak. The leakage detection system can indicate whether the leak is occurring in the left or right side of the vehicle. An operator can, by observing the unique display, determine whether the received RF energy is a leak from the coaxial cable system or a spurious signal from some other source. The cable leakage detection system can unambiguously detect an RF leak and store the vehicular leakage index, the RF signal level, the distance from the coaxial cable, the frequency of the signal, the geographic location, and the time of the detected leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Inventor: Henry D. Kallina
  • Patent number: 5895436
    Abstract: A vehicle tracking method and system using the cellular network infrastructure is disclosed. A cellular transceiver which is installed in a vehicle that requires tracking, operates on a continuous standby mode to remain constantly accessible to the cellular security provider. The cellular transceiver is turned to an active mode when tracking of the vehicle is initiated. The general location of the stolen vehicle can be determined by paging the cellular transceiver located in the stolen vehicle to identify one or more cell sites located near the stolen vehicle. The information is then relayed to a tracking vehicle which makes use of a radio direction finder to obtain an accurate bearing on the location of the stolen vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventors: Paul-Andre Roland Savoie, Andre Eric Boulay
  • Patent number: 5838279
    Abstract: A navigation and/or tracking system has a base station B and a roving receiver R both of which are capable of receiving signals from a plurality of transmission sources T.times.1,T.times.2. A link signal W,W' is passed between the base station and the roving receiver to enable the relative location of the roving receiver to be determined. The apparatus enables the determination of the position of the roving receiver within a space (such as a tunnel T) shielded from receipt of signals from the transmission sources and has equipment P,Q for producing substitute signals, each signal being locked in phase with a signal from a respective one of the transmission sources. A curvilinear transmission element or elements F,F',F", extend within the shielded space T for generating fields in the shielded space. The equipment P,Q propagates at least two of the substitute signals in opposite directions along the curvilinear transmission element or elements for receipt by the roving receiver R.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Cambridge Positioning Systems Limited
    Inventors: Peter James Duffett-Smith, Graham Woan