U.S. patent application number 14/800490 was filed with the patent office on 2019-08-22 for utility locator devices, systems, and methods with satellite and magnetic field sonde antenna systems.
The applicant listed for this patent is Stephanie M. Bench, Jesse O. Casares, David A. Cox, Ray Merewether, Mark S. Olsson, Jan Soukup, Justin W. Taylor. Invention is credited to Stephanie M. Bench, Jesse O. Casares, David A. Cox, Ray Merewether, Mark S. Olsson, Jan Soukup, Justin W. Taylor.
Application Number | 20190257975 14/800490 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 57774911 |
Filed Date | 2019-08-22 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190257975 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Olsson; Mark S. ; et
al. |
August 22, 2019 |
UTILITY LOCATOR DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS WITH SATELLITE AND
MAGNETIC FIELD SONDE ANTENNA SYSTEMS
Abstract
A transmitter system for providing current to a utility when
performing a locate operation is disclosed. The transmitter system
may include a tray apparatus, a transmitter module for generating
an output current for provision to the utility so as to generate a
magnetic field for detection by a utility locator disposed on or in
the tray apparatus, and a sonde antenna node, a satellite antenna
node, or a combined satellite navigation and sonde antenna
node.
Inventors: |
Olsson; Mark S.; (La Jolla,
CA) ; Casares; Jesse O.; (El Cajon, CA) ;
Soukup; Jan; (San Diego, CA) ; Bench; Stephanie
M.; (Carlsbad, CA) ; Merewether; Ray; (La
Jolla, CA) ; Cox; David A.; (San Diego, CA) ;
Taylor; Justin W.; (Bend, OR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Olsson; Mark S.
Casares; Jesse O.
Soukup; Jan
Bench; Stephanie M.
Merewether; Ray
Cox; David A.
Taylor; Justin W. |
La Jolla
El Cajon
San Diego
Carlsbad
La Jolla
San Diego
Bend |
CA
CA
CA
CA
CA
CA
OR |
US
US
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20170017010 A1 |
January 19, 2017 |
|
|
Family ID: |
57774911 |
Appl. No.: |
14/800490 |
Filed: |
July 15, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62024920 |
Jul 15, 2014 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01V 3/02 20130101; G01V
3/15 20130101; G01V 3/165 20130101; G01V 3/081 20130101; G01S 19/48
20130101; G01S 19/42 20130101; G01S 19/51 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G01V 3/165 20060101
G01V003/165; G01V 3/02 20060101 G01V003/02; G01V 3/08 20060101
G01V003/08 |
Claims
1. A transmitter system for providing current to a utility when
performing a locate operation, comprising: a tray apparatus; a
transmitter module for generating an output current for provision
to the utility so as to generate a magnetic field for detection by
a utility locator disposed on or in the tray apparatus; a magnetic
field sonde antenna transmit node; and a satellite location system
antenna node oriented in a predefined position relative to the
magnetic field sonde transmit antenna node; and a satellite
location system receiver coupled to the satellite location system
antenna node for generating location data corresponding to a
location of the transmitter system.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein the satellite location system node
and the magnetic field sonde transmit antenna node are arranged in
a combined antenna node.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the satellite location system
antenna node comprises a GPS antenna.
4. The system of claim 2, wherein the combined antenna node
includes a GPS antenna node and the magnetic field sonde transmit
antenna node includes a coil, and wherein the GPS antenna phase
center and the sonde outer coil centroid share a substantially
common point in space.
5. The transmitter system of claim 1, wherein one or both of the
antenna nodes includes a mast removably coupled to the tray
apparatus.
6. The transmitter system of claim 1, further combining a
transmitter module for providing the location data to a utility
locator.
7. A satellite positioning and sonde transmit system for providing
location data to a utility locator, comprising: a housing; a
satellite antenna; a magnetic field sonde transmit antenna
positioned at predefined reference position relative to the
satellite antenna; an electronic circuit for providing a transmit
signal to the sonde transmit antenna; a satellite positioning
receiver coupled to the satellite antenna for generating location
data associated with a location of the system; and an interface for
providing an output signal from the satellite positioning receiver
to the locator.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein the satellite antenna array and
the sonde antenna array are combined in the predefined reference
position.
9. The system of claim 6, wherein a center or reference position of
the satellite antenna array and the sonde antenna array are at a
substantially common point.
10. The system of claim 7, further comprising an attachment
mechanism for removably coupling the housing to a user.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) to co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.
No. 62/024,920, entitled UTILITY LOCATOR DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND
METHODS WITH GPS AND SONDE ANTENNA SYSTEMS, filed Jul. 15, 2014,
the content of which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety for all purposes.
FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates generally to buried utility locator
devices, systems, and methods used for locating utility lines,
pipes, and/or other conductors that are obscured from view. More
specifically, but not exclusively, the disclosure relates to
utility locators and associated GPS and sonde systems wherein the
locator determines a position of the GPS and sonde system relative
to the locator.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Buried utility locators (also denoted for brevity as "buried
object locators" or just "locators") are devices for sensing
magnetic fields emitted from hidden or buried conductors (e.g.,
underground utilities such as pipes, conduits, or cables), and
processing the received signals to determine information about the
conductors and the associated underground environment.
[0004] While some buried utilities are electrically energized
(e.g., underground power cables) or carry currents coupled from
radio signals or other electromagnetic radiation, in some buried
utility location operations (also denoted herein as a "locate" for
brevity) currents are coupled, either directly, inductively, or
capacitively, from a buried utility transmitter (also denoted
herein as a "transmitter" for brevity). These transmitters are
configured to generate output current signals at predefined
frequencies, phases, duty cycles, and/or having other signal
characteristics of use in locating operations, and then couple the
output current signals to the buried utility via a direct contact,
and/or via inductive or capacitive coupling.
[0005] Existing transmitter devices typically lack the ability to
communicate information with other locate system tools such as
buried utility locators. Furthermore, existing systems including a
transmitter device may require a user to transport a wide array of
tools during the locate operation. These tools may be numerous and
burdensome for a user to carry, however, they are commonly carried
around by hand by a user or in a bag with various other items.
[0006] Accordingly, there is a need in the art to address the
above-described as well as other problems.
SUMMARY
[0007] This disclosure relates generally to buried utility locator
devices, systems, and methods used for locating utility lines,
pipes, and/or other conductors that are obscured from view. More
specifically, but not exclusively, the disclosure relates to
utility locators and associated GPS and sonde systems wherein the
locator determines a position of the GPS and sonde system relative
to the locator.
[0008] Various additional aspects, features, and functionality are
further described below in conjunction with the appended
Drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The present application may be more fully appreciated in
connection with the following detailed description taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a system using an embodiment of
a transmitter device with dockable tray apparatus.
[0011] FIG. 2A is a detailed isometric view of the transmitter
device with dockable tray apparatus embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0012] FIG. 2B is the view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A
rotated to show the opposite side.
[0013] FIG. 3 is a partially exploded view of the embodiment of
FIG. 2A.
[0014] FIG. 4 is a top down view of the embodiment of FIG. 2A with
masts removed.
[0015] FIG. 5A is a sectional view along line 5A-5A of FIG. 4
illustrating an embodiment of a latch mechanism.
[0016] FIG. 5B is the view of the latch mechanism of FIG. 5A with
the latch moved to an open position.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a top down exploded view of an embodiment of a
transmitter device.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a top down exploded view of an alternative
transmitter device embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a direct connect clamp
embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a transmitter clamp
embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a Hi-Q induction device
embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 11 is an illustration of the transmitter device
embodiment with dockable tray apparatus from FIG. 1 utilizing
multiple clamps on multiple utilities.
[0023] FIG. 12A is a diagram of one example embodiment of a time
multiplexing scheme of frequencies.
[0024] FIG. 12B is a diagram of another example embodiment of a
time multiplexing scheme of frequencies.
[0025] FIG. 12C is a diagram of another example embodiment of a
time multiplexing scheme of frequencies.
[0026] FIG. 12D is a diagram of another example embodiment of a
time multiplexing scheme of frequencies.
[0027] FIG. 12E is a diagram of another example embodiment of a
time multiplexing scheme of frequencies.
[0028] FIG. 12F is a diagram of another example embodiment of a
time multiplexing scheme of frequencies.
[0029] FIG. 12G is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of an
adaptive scheme for switching transmitter frequencies.
[0030] FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating how displayed utility
location information may be generated by fitting collected sensor
and signal data to a model.
[0031] FIG. 14A is a top down exploded view of a tray apparatus
embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 14B is the view of the embodiment of FIG. 14A rotated
to show the opposite side.
[0033] FIG. 15 is a top down exploded view of a storage drawer
embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 16 is a sectional view along line 16-16 of the
embodiment of FIG. 4.
[0035] FIG. 17 is an alternative embodiment of a transmitter device
with dockable tray apparatus.
[0036] FIG. 18 is a top down exploded view of the transmitter
device embodiment illustrated in FIG. 17.
[0037] FIG. 19 is a top down exploded view of the tray apparatus
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 17.
[0038] FIG. 20 illustrates details of one embodiment of a
transmitter element.
[0039] FIG. 21 illustrated details of one embodiment of
multi-frequency waveform generation.
[0040] FIG. 22 illustrates details of one embodiment of
multi-output current signal generation from a transmitter
element.
[0041] FIG. 23 illustrated details of one embodiment of
multi-frequency output current signal generation from a transmitter
element.
[0042] FIG. 24 illustrates details of one embodiment of a
transmitter element with intelligent and non-intelligent clamps for
coupling output current to a utility.
[0043] FIG. 25 illustrates details of one embodiment of a
multi-frequency output current frequency table for use in
environments with 60 Hz power.
[0044] FIG. 26 illustrates details of one embodiment of a
multi-frequency output current frequency table for use in
environments with 50 Hz power.
[0045] FIG. 27 is an illustration of a system using an alternative
embodiment of a transmitter and tray device with a locator
embodiment.
[0046] FIG. 28 is an isometric view of the transmitter and tray
device from FIG. 27.
[0047] FIG. 29 is an isometric view of the transmitter and tray
from FIG. 27 with stowage ports opened and clamps attached.
[0048] FIG. 30 is a side view detailing the inside of the stowage
ports.
[0049] FIG. 31 illustrates details of an alternate embodiment of a
transmitter device including a GPS and sonde antenna.
[0050] FIG. 32 illustrates details of an embodiment of a GPS and
sonde antenna array.
[0051] FIG. 33 illustrates details of an embodiment of a locator
system with a GPS and sonde system.
[0052] FIGS. 34A and 34B illustrate details of an embodiment of a
GPS and sonde antenna array.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
Overview
[0053] This disclosure relates generally to buried utility locator
devices, systems, and methods used for locating utility lines,
pipes, and/or other conductors that are obscured from view. More
specifically, but not exclusively, the disclosure relates to
utility locators and associated GPS and sonde systems wherein the
locator determines a position of the GPS and sonde system relative
to the locator.
[0054] The disclosures herein may be combined in various additional
embodiments with elements, systems and methods as described in
co-assigned patents and patent applications, including transmitter
and locator devices and associated apparatus, systems, and methods
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,009,399, entitled OMNIDIRECTIONAL
SONDE AND LINE LOCATOR, issued Mar. 7, 2006, U.S. Pat. No.
7,276,910, entitled A COMPACT SELF-TUNED ELECTRICAL RESONATOR FOR
BURIED OBJECT LOCATOR APPLICATIONS, issued Oct. 2, 2007, U.S. Pat.
No. 7,288,929, entitled INDUCTIVE CLAMP FOR APPLYING SIGNAL TO
BURIED UTILITIES, issued Oct. 30, 2007, U.S. Pat. No. 7,443,154,
entitled MULTI-SENSOR MAPPING OMNIDIRECTIONAL SONDE AND LINE
LOCATOR, issued Oct. 28, 2008, U.S. Pat. No. 7,518,374, entitled
RECONFIGURABLE PORTABLE LOCATOR EMPLOYING MULTIPLE SENSOR ARRAY
HAVING FLEXIBLE NESTED ORTHOGONAL ANTENNAS, issued Apr. 14, 2009,
U.S. Pat. No. 8,264,226, U.S. Pat. No. 7,619,516, entitled SINGLE
AND MULTI-TRACE OMNIDIRECTIONAL SONDE AND LINE LOCATORS AND
TRANSMITTERS USED THEREWITH, issued Nov. 17, 2009, U.S. Pat. No.
7,825,647, entitled COMPACT LINE ILLUMINATOR FOR LOCATING BURIED
PIPES AND CABLES, issued Nov. 2, 2010, U.S. Pat. No. 7,990,151,
entitled TRI_POD BURIED LOCATOR SYSTEM, issued Aug. 2, 2011, U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/469,024, entitled BURIED OBJECT
LOCATOR APPARATUS AND SYSTEMS, filed May 10, 2012, U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/570,211, entitled PHASE-SYNCHRONIZED BURIED
OBJECT LOCATOR APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHODS, filed Aug. 8, 2012,
U.S. Pat. No. 8,248,056, entitled A BURIED OBJECT LOCATOR SYSTEM
EMPLOYING AUTOMATED VIRTUAL DEPTH EVENT DETECTION AND SIGNALING,
issued Aug. 21, 2012, U.S. Pat. No. 8,264,226, entitled SYSTEM AND
METHOD FOR LOCATING BURIED PIPES AND CABLES WITH A MAN PORTABLE
LOCATOR AND A TRANSMITTER IN A MESH NETWORK, issued Sep. 11, 2012,
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/676,989, entitled QUAD-GRADIENT
COILS FOR USE IN A LOCATING SYSTEM, filed Nov. 11, 2012, U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/850,181, entitled GRADIENT ANTENNA
COILS AND ARRAYS FOR USE IN A LOCATING SYSTEM, filed Mar. 25, 2013,
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/851,951, entitled DUAL ANTENNA
SYSTEMS WITH VARIABLE POLARIZATION, filed Mar. 27, 2013, U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/207,502, entitled GRADIENT ANTENNA
COILS AND ARRAYS FOR USE IN A LOCATING SYSTEM, filed Mar. 12, 2014,
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/214,151, entitled DUAL ANTENNA
SYSTEMS WITH VARIABLE POLARIZATION, filed Mar. 14, 2014, and U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/446,279, entitled INDUCTIVE CLAMP
DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS, filed Jul. 29, 2014. The content of
each of these applications is incorporated by reference herein in
its entirety (these applications may be collectively denoted herein
as the "incorporated applications").
[0055] The following exemplary embodiments are provided for the
purpose of illustrating examples of various aspects, details, and
functions of the present disclosure; however, the described
embodiments are not intended to be in any way limiting. It will be
apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that various aspects
may be implemented in other embodiments within the spirit and scope
of the present disclosure.
[0056] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to a utility locator
and associated GPS and sonde systems, wherein the GPS and sonde
system sends data corresponding to a location and a sonde signal,
and wherein the locator determines a position of the GPS and sonde
system relative to the locator.
[0057] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a buried
utility transmitter system with a rechargeable battery system
including one or more batteries, which may be intelligent
batteries. The rechargeable batteries may be upward facing when
coupled on the transmitter system and may indicate the charge
status of the battery. In some embodiments, the charge status may
be indicated on the battery itself.
[0058] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a transmitter
module or element in keeping with aspects of the disclosure that is
configured to connect multiple output devices, such as one or more
of inductive devices, capacitive devices, and/or direct contact
coupling devices simultaneously. For example, a transmitter may
include various jacks for connecting different inductive clamps,
spring loaded direct contact clips, and/or other current coupling
devices. A data link communication between the transmitter and each
connected induction device may be established to identify the
device and to exchange data with the device during operation.
[0059] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a transmitter
module or element configured to induce an output signal or signals
at multiple frequencies and/or at multiple phase angles and/or at
different or varying amplitudes. These frequencies may, when used
with a correspondingly enabled locating system, be multiplexed in
time and/or frequency. Various switching methods may be used with
an enabled locator or other system devices to allow for time and/or
phase synchronization. Communication signals between an enabled
locator and transmitter may be used to communicate data or
information usable to provide phase synchronization. Additional
data, such as global navigation system (GNS) data, such as data
from a GPS or other positioning system or timing communication
system signals, may also be used to facilitate phase
synchronization between the transmitter and an enabled locator. The
switching of frequencies may be adaptive whereby the transmitted
frequency or frequencies may be determined by the nearest
utility.
[0060] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a clamp
configured to indicate orientation by which the clamp may be
correctly applied to a utility, pipe, and/or other conductor to
allow for phase synchronization with the induced signal from the
transmitter device.
[0061] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a transmitter
module or element including one or more sensors or devices such as,
but not limited to, receivers for global navigation systems (GNS)
which may be global positioning satellite (GPS) receivers,
Bluetooth, and industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) radio
transceivers. In embodiments utilizing GPS or other GNS receivers,
the receiver may be used to time sync the transmitter as well as
other system devices. The time sync may synchronize with multiple
spaced apart frequencies but still be phase locked to the
receiver(s) on a timed interval.
[0062] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a mathematical
model for use in utility locator, whereby data representing sensed
electromagnetic frequencies may be input into a mathematical data
model in combination with other sensor and/or navigational data and
thereby derive the position of utilities or other conductors being
locator. In such systems, a Kalman filter and/or various
multivariate estimation techniques may be used to process the data.
Display information derived in such a way may be displayed on an
enabled locator or other system devices in combination with or
instead of the sensed electromagnetic data.
[0063] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a transmitter
system including a dockable tray apparatus. Such a tray apparatus
may be configured to enhance portability of job site tools. For
instance, such a tray apparatus may include one or more of a tool
tray(s) or enclosure(s), spray can storage, a support point for a
GPS antenna mast(s), a support point for an Omni-Induction device,
a shoulder strap that attaches to a handle, a shoulder strap that
attaches to the end of the tray near a center point of balance, and
a storage space for one or more ground stakes. The ground stakes
may further be secured magnetically to the dockable tray apparatus.
The transmitter may further be removable from the tray
apparatus.
[0064] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a transmitter
module or element configured to connect multiple induction devices
simultaneously. For instance, such a transmitter may include
various jacks for connecting different clamps and/or other devices.
A data link communication to each connected induction device may be
established to identify the device and to exchange data with the
device.
[0065] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a transmitter
module or element configured to induce multiple frequencies into a
utility, either via a single output current signal or multiple
current output signals. These frequencies may, when used with an
enabled locating system, be multiplexed in time and/or frequency.
Various switching schemes may be used with an enabled locator or
other system devices to allow for phase synchronization. The
switching of frequencies may be adaptive whereby the transmitted
frequency or frequencies may be determined by the nearest utility
to the receiver.
[0066] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a transmitter
module or element including one or more sensors/devices such as,
but not limited to, receivers for global navigation systems (GNS)
which may be global positioning satellite (GPS) receivers,
Bluetooth, and industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) radio
transceivers. In embodiments utilizing GPS or other GNS receiver,
the receiver may be used to time sync the transmitter as well as
other system devices. The time sync may synchronize with multiple
spaced apart frequencies but still be phase locked to the
receiver(s) on a timed interval.
[0067] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a transmitter
system for providing current to a utility when performing a locate
operation. The transmitter system may, for example, include a
transmitter module or transmitter element for generating an output
current for provision to the utility so as to generate a magnetic
field for detection by a utility locator. The transmitter system
may include a tray apparatus configured to be removably dockable to
the transmitter module or element or a body or frame of the
transmitter system.
[0068] The tray apparatus may, for example, include one or more
container holders. The one or more container holders may include a
paint canister receptacle feature configured to hold one or more
spray paint cans. The system may include one or more antenna
elements, and the tray apparatus may include one or more mounting
elements for securing the antenna elements to the tray. The one or
more antenna elements may include a GPS antenna. The one or more
antenna elements may include a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth antenna or other
short-range wireless data system antenna. The one or more antenna
elements may include an antenna mast, and the antenna mast may be
configured to be removably attached to the tray apparatus and/or
the transmitter element or element.
[0069] The tray apparatus may include a ground stake receptacle
element. The ground stake receptacle element may include one or
more magnets and an area of the tray accessory may be formed or
molded to receive a ground stake. The tray apparatus may further
include a carrying structure. The tray apparatus may further
include one or more storage drawers. The one or more drawers may be
retained with one or more latch mechanisms. The tray apparatus may
further include a latch punch element. The carrying structure may
include one or more strap mounting elements for securing a strap to
the tray apparatus. The transmitter system may include one or more
latch mechanisms to removably couple the tray apparatus to the
transmitter element or a body or frame of the transmitter system.
The latch mechanisms may include a latch element, a spring, and a
spring retainer nubbin formed on the body of the tray apparatus.
The transmitter module may include one or more lip features to
which the latch element is secured.
[0070] The transmitter system may, for example, further include an
induction device coupled to an output of the transmitter module or
transmitter element to induce current flow in the utility. The
induction device may be an omni-directional induction device. The
induction device may be a coil and the coil may be disposed within
a shell of the transmitter element or module.
[0071] The transmitter module or element may, for example, include
a top shell half and a bottom shell half. The top shell half may
include one or more clamp jacks. The system may further include one
or more clamps, wherein the top shell half and the bottom shell
half may be secured together with the one or more clamps. An
induction coil may be disposed within the top half shell and the
bottom half shell. The system may further include a direct connect
ohmic clamp. The direct connect clamp may be electrically coupled
to the transmitter element through an accessory device clamp jack.
The direct connect clamp may be an intelligent clamp or a
non-intelligent clamp. The direct connection clamp may include a
polarization indicator to allow a user to connect the clamp to a
utility with the correct polarity to determine direction of current
flow. The direct connection claim includes a utility type selector
to allow a user to select a utility type and provide information on
the utility type to the transmitter module or element.
[0072] The transmitter module or element may be configured to
provide a plurality of output current signals. Ones of the
plurality of output current signals may comprise signal components
of multiple frequencies. The signal components of multiple
frequencies may be combined at an output of a digital signal
processor other electronic signal generation element. The plurality
of output current signals may include three or more signals and the
three or more signals may be simultaneously provided as outputs.
The plurality of output current signals may include signals
provided in different time slots. The different time slots may be
at least partially non-overlapping. The different time slots of two
or more of the plurality of output current signals may overlap. The
plurality of output current signals may be provided at a plurality
of different frequencies, and the time slots may be selected to
provide an integral number of phases of each of the plurality of
different frequencies. The plurality of output current signals may
be provided at the same frequency.
[0073] The plurality of output current signals may, for example, be
provided in a plurality of time slots, and the plurality of time
slots may be at least partially non-overlapping. A first of the
plurality of output current signals may be provided at a first
frequency, and a second of the plurality of output current signals
may be provided at a second frequency different than the first
frequency. A first of the plurality of output current signals and
the second of the plurality of time slots may be at least partially
non-overlapping. Ones of the plurality of output current signals
may be provided in a predefined sequence. The predefined sequence
may be a periodic sequence. The predefined sequence may be a
pseudo-random sequence. Data defining the predefined pseudo-random
sequence may be communicated from the transmitter element to an
associated utility locator. One or more of the output current
signals may be suppressed during a transition window between time
slots. The output current signals may be adaptively selected based
at least in part on one or more utility types.
[0074] The transmitter element may, for example, be configured to
receive information from an associated locator defining nearest
utility information, and may generate output current signals to be
supplied only to the defined nearest utility. The transmitter
element may be configured to receive information from an associated
locator defining one or more utility to which output current should
be coupled, and may generate output current signals to be supplied
to the defined one or more utilities.
[0075] The system may, for example, further include a timing system
module. The timing system module may be a GPS module. The timing
system module may be a terrestrial timing system module. The system
may further include a cellular data communications system module.
The cellular data communications system module may be a long term
evolution (LTE) system module. The cellular data communications
system module may be a CDMA system module. The system may further
include a wireless data communications module configured to
communicate with an associated utility locator via a wireless data
communications link. The system may further include an anti-theft
module configured to sense a motion of the transmitter system and
generate an alarm response. The alarm response may be wirelessly
transmitter to a corresponding utility locator.
[0076] The transmitter element may, for example, include a
processing element, and the processing element may be configured to
control, at least partially via a wireless data communications
link, operation of the transmitter element.
[0077] The system may further include an intelligent rechargeable
battery removably coupled to the transmitter. The system may
further include a first intelligent rechargeable battery removably
coupled to the transmitter and a second intelligent rechargeable
battery removably coupled to the transmitter. The transmitter
element may be further configured to dynamically switch power
supplied to the transmitter from the first rechargeable battery to
the second rechargeable battery.
[0078] The system may, for example, further include one or more
magnets disposed on the tray apparatus for attaching one or more
ground stakes to the tray apparatus. The system may further include
an inductive current clamp including a connection polarity
indicator. The system may further include an intelligent inductive
current clamp. The intelligent inductive current clamp may include
a utility type selector.
[0079] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a tray
apparatus configured to be removably dockable to a transmitter
module or element or a body or frame of a transmitter system.
[0080] The tray apparatus may, for example, include one or more
container holders. The one or more container holders may include a
paint canister receptacle feature configured to hold one or more
spray paint cans. The system may include one or more antenna
elements, and the tray apparatus may include one or more mounting
elements for securing the antenna elements to the tray. The one or
more antenna elements may include a GPS antenna or antenna array.
The one or more antenna elements may include a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
antenna or other short-range wireless data system antenna. The one
or more antenna elements may include an antenna mast, and the
antenna mast may be configured to be removably attached to the tray
apparatus and/or to a transmitter module or element. The tray
apparatus may include a ground stake receptacle element. The ground
stake receptacle element may include one or more magnets and an
area of the tray accessory may be formed or molded to receive a
ground stake. The tray apparatus may further include a carrying
structure. The tray apparatus may further include one or more
storage drawers. The one or more drawers may be retained with one
or more latch mechanisms. The tray apparatus may further include a
latch punch element. The carrying structure may include one or more
strap mounting elements for securing a strap to the tray apparatus.
One or more magnets may be disposed on the tray apparatus for
attaching one or more ground stakes to the tray apparatus.
[0081] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a transmitter
module element for generating an output current for provision to
the utility so as to generate a magnetic field for detection by a
utility locator.
[0082] The transmitter module or element may, for example, include
a top shell half and a bottom shell half. The top shell half may
include one or more clamp jacks. The system may further include one
or more clamps, wherein the top shell half and the bottom shell
half may be secured together with the one or more clamps. An
induction coil may be disposed within the top half shell and the
bottom half shell. A direct connect clamp may be electrically
coupled to the transmitter element through an accessory device
clamp jack. The direct connect clamp may be an intelligent clamp or
a non-intelligent clamp. The direct connection clamp may include a
polarization indicator to allow a user to connect the clamp to a
utility with the correct polarity to determine direction of current
flow. The direct connection claim may include a utility type
selector to allow a user to select a utility type and provide
information on the utility type to the transmitter module or
element.
[0083] The transmitter module or element may be configured to
provide a plurality of output current signals. Ones of the
plurality of output current signals may comprise signal components
of multiple frequencies. The signal components of multiple
frequencies may be combined at an output of a digital signal
processor other electronic signal generation element. The plurality
of output current signals may include three or more signals and the
three or more signals may be simultaneously provided as outputs.
The plurality of output current signals may include signals
provided in different time slots. The different time slots may be
at least partially non-overlapping. The different time slots of two
or more of the plurality of output current signals may overlap. The
plurality of output current signals may be provided at a plurality
of different frequencies, and the time slots may be selected to
provide an integral number of phases of each of the plurality of
different frequencies. The plurality of output current signals may
be provided at the same frequency.
[0084] The plurality of output current signals may, for example, be
provided in a plurality of time slots, and the plurality of time
slots may be at least partially non-overlapping. A first of the
plurality of output current signals may be provided at a first
frequency, and a second of the plurality of output current signals
may be provided at a second frequency different than the first
frequency. A first of the plurality of output current signals and
the second of the plurality of time slots may be at least partially
non-overlapping. Ones of the plurality of output current signals
may be provided in a predefined sequence. The predefined sequence
may be a periodic sequence. The predefined sequence may be a
pseudo-random sequence. Data defining the predefined pseudo-random
sequence may be communicated from the transmitter element to an
associated utility locator. One or more of the output current
signals may be suppressed during a transition window between time
slots. The output current signals may be adaptively selected based
at least in part on one or more utility types.
[0085] The transmitter module or element may, for example, be
configured to receive information from an associated locator
defining nearest utility information, and may generate output
current signals to be supplied only to the defined nearest utility.
The transmitter element may be configured to receive information
from an associated locator defining one or more utility to which
output current should be coupled, and may generate output current
signals to be supplied to the defined one or more utilities.
[0086] The transmitter module or element may, for example, further
include a timing system module. The timing system module may be a
GPS module. The timing system module may be a terrestrial timing
system module. The transmitter module or element may further
include a cellular data communications system module. The cellular
data communications system module may be a long term evolution
(LTE) system module. The cellular data communications system module
may be a CDMA system module. The transmitter module or element may
further include a wireless data communications module configured to
communicate with an associated utility locator via a wireless data
communications link. The transmitter module or element may further
include an anti-theft module configured to sense a motion of the
transmitter system and generate an alarm response. The alarm
response may be wirelessly transmitter to a corresponding utility
locator.
[0087] The transmitter element may, for example, include a
processing element, and the processing element may be configured to
control, at least partially via a wireless data communications
link, operation of the transmitter element.
[0088] The transmitter module or element may further include an
intelligent rechargeable battery removably coupled to the
transmitter module or element. The system may further include a
first intelligent rechargeable battery removably coupled to the
transmitter and a second intelligent rechargeable battery removably
coupled to the transmitter module or element. The transmitter
module or element may be further configured to dynamically switch
power supplied to the transmitter from the first rechargeable
battery to the second rechargeable battery.
[0089] Various additional aspects, features, and functions are
described below in conjunction with FIGS. 1 through 34B of the
appended Drawings.
[0090] It is noted that as used herein, the term, "exemplary" means
"serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any aspect,
detail, function, implementation, and/or embodiment described
herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as
preferred or advantageous over other aspects and/or
embodiments.
Example Transmitter Devices Used in Locating Systems
[0091] Turning to FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment 100 of a
transmitter system including a transmitter module or element and a
removably dockable try apparatus is illustrated. Transmitter system
embodiment 100 as shown may include a transmitter element, module,
or device 110 and a removably dockable tray apparatus 120. The
transmitter system 100 may be configured to generate current
signals to be provided to hidden or buried utilities to induce
electromagnetic signals onto a conductor(s), such as the utility
line 130, which is typically buried underground or otherwise at
least partially hidden from direct access. A user 140 equipped with
a corresponding utility locator, such as locator device 150 as
shown, which is configured to sense the emitted magnetic field
signal(s) associated with current flow in the utility 130, may then
determine information associated with the buried utility 130, such
as depth, position, location, orientation, conductor current, soil
condition, presence of other utilities, and the like. The locator
device 150 may include or be coupled to additional elements (not
shown in FIG. 1) such as one or more GPS systems including one or
more GPS antennas and receivers, as well as other elements not
shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments the GPS system may include a
sonde device fixedly attached to or coupled to the GPS antenna such
that magnetic field signals, such as, for example, low frequency
signals in the 1-20 kHz frequency range, are detected by the
locator so as to determine the relative difference in position
between the GPS antenna and the locator. Such a configuration may
be advantageous in various embodiments, but in particular in
embodiments where the GPS system antenna is positioned separately
from the locator, such as a GPS antenna worn on user 140's back or
positioned on a vehicle or other separate position from the
locator. The sonde may be in an air core coil configuration, and
the sonde center or centroid may be positioned at a defined
position relative to the antenna phase center of the GPS antenna.
In some embodiments the centroid and the antenna phase center may
be aligned. In such a configuration the GPS system may determine
location coordinate based on the antenna phase center of the GPS
antenna, and the locator may determine the relative position or
distance, typically in three dimensions, of the GPS antenna
compared to the position of the locator. The locator may then
associated this relative position or distance with buried utility
information determined from magnetic field signals emitted by the
buried utility or object, such as depth and/or relative horizontal
offset and/or other utility locator information, and store the
associated information. This information may include a precise
location (e.g., in latitude/longitude/depth or other reference
coordinates) of the buried utility. Data, such as
latitude/longitude/altitude coordinates of the GPS antenna phase
center, may be communicated between the GPS system and locator via
wired or wireless connections via transmitter, receiver, and/or
transceiver modules, such as via Bluetooth, WiFi, and the like.
[0092] A wireless data communications link may be established
between the transmitter module 110 and the locator device 150 to
communicate data between the transmitter module 110 and the locator
device 150. The link may be established using a wireless data
communications module in or coupled to the transmitter module 110
to receive data and information from the locator and/or send data
and information to the locator, such as data received from a
corresponding locator or other electronic computing device, or data
sent to a corresponding locator or other electronic computing
device. An associated locator, such as locator 150 as shown, may
include a corresponding wireless data communications module.
[0093] The data communicated between the locator and transmitter
may, for example, be information related to transmitter or locator
operation, such as signal(s) being sent by the transmitter, phase
or timing information at either the transmitter, locator, or both,
output signal power levels at the transmitter, received signal
information provided from the locator, control signals from the
locator to control transmitter operation, or vice-versa, other
operational information from the transmitter or locator, and the
like. For example, in some embodiments, the locator device 150 may
be configured with a processing module to control, at least in
part, the transmitter module 110 through the use of the wireless
link. The transmitter module 110 may include or be coupled to a
corresponding processor module to effect control functions and/or
send or receive associated data. For instance, powering on/off,
attached device control, and frequency selection controls for the
transmitter module 110 may be provided, via the wireless link,
through the interface on the locator device 150. The wireless data
communications module may, for example, be a Bluetooth, Wi-Fi,
Zigbee, cellular, or other wireless data communications module as
known or developed in the art.
[0094] The transmitter module 110 and/or locator device 150 may be
equipped with global navigation system (GNS) modules or sensors,
such as global positioning system (GPS) receiver modules, GLONASS
system modules, Galileo system modules, as well as time
synchronization receivers or modules, cellular or data
communications modules, and/or other sensors or modules, such as
inertial sensors, environmental condition sensors, or other data
sensing or acquisition sensors or modules. Data from these
navigation systems and/or inertial sensors, as well as other
sensors and/or devices, may be communicated via wireless link from
the transmitter module 110 to the locator device 150 and vice
versa.
[0095] In some embodiments, the transmitter system 100 may include
a security or anti-theft module that may be coupled to or integral
with the transmitter module. For example, in one embodiment an
alarm warning, which may be generated in a processing module and/or
anti-theft alarm module of the transmitter, may be generated and
communicated to a buried object locator and/or other system device
that includes a corresponding receiver, such as when there is a
detected motion, tilt, or movement of the transmitter system.
Movement detection may, for example, be based on a tilt sensor,
inertial sensor, GNS module output, or other motion detection
module or device. This warning alarm may be used as part of an
anti-theft system and aid in protecting a transmitter device which,
in some applications, may be operating out of sight during the
locate procedure and/or may be stored away from a user. The alarm
system may include internal alarm elements in the transmitter, such
as lights or other visual alarm indicators, buzzers or other audio
alarm generation elements, or other elements for signaling that the
transmitter has been moved, such as a wired or wired alarm signal
provided to a separate alarm device, such as a pager, cellular
phone, tablet, or other device that may be carried by a user and/or
monitored at a remote sight.
[0096] In some embodiments, a wireless link may also be established
between other devices within the utility locating system. For
instance, the transmitter module 110 may also be configured to
communicate with one or more locators, GPS systems, a smart paint
stick device, laptop computer, tablet computer, wireless local area
network (WLAN) or wide area network (WAN) module, smart phone or
other cellular device or system, and/or other electronic computing
systems or devices incorporating processing elements. Examples of
technologies that may be used to establish such a wireless link may
include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth wireless devices,
industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) radio devices, and/or
wireless area network (WAN) technologies such as Wi-Fi (WLAN) and
Wi-Max networks as well as cellular or other data networks.
[0097] Turning to FIGS. 2A-3, in exemplary embodiments, the
transmitter module 110 may be removably coupled to a tray
apparatus, such as example tray apparatus embodiment 120 as shown.
The tray apparatus may be coupled to the transmitter module, and/or
to an associated body or support frame, via various mechanical
connection mechanisms, such as tabs and slots, spring mechanisms,
screws or pins, hinges, clips, and the like. In an exemplary
embodiment the transmitter body or frame is integral with the
transmitter module; however, in some embodiments the tray apparatus
may be removably attachable to the body or frame in place of, or in
addition to, the transmitter module.
[0098] A tray apparatus such as embodiment 120 may include inserts,
cutouts, molded shapes or forms, or other structures or forms to
store and carry various tools, devices, and other apparatus that
may be used at a job site. For example, one or more antenna masts,
such as the antenna masts 222, may secure to the tray apparatus 120
via mounting elements. The antenna masts may include cabling to
electrically connect various mast attachments devices such as the
GPS antenna 224 and/or the omni-directional induction device 226 as
shown. Further teachings regarding some example GPS antenna devices
that may be used in various transmitter system embodiments are
disclosed in co-assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/851,951, entitled DUAL ANTENNA SYSTEMS WITH VARIABLE
POLARIZATION, filed Mar. 15, 2013, the content of which is
incorporated by reference herein. Further teachings regarding
example omni-directional induction devices are disclosed in
co-assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/894,038, entitled
OMNI-INDUCER TRANSMITTING DEVICES AND METHODS, filed May 14, 2013,
the content of which is incorporated by reference herein.
[0099] In some embodiments, the GPS antenna 224 and/or the
omni-directional induction device 226 may be replaced with a
combined satellite navigation and sonde antenna node. Illustrated
in FIG. 31, a transmitter system 3100 in keeping with the present
disclosure may include a combined GPS and sonde antenna node 3110
(further illustrated in detail in FIG. 32) which may be such a
combined satellite navigation and sonde antenna node. A similar
configuration of GPS and sonde may also be used with various
locator embodiments.
[0100] A combined satellite navigation and sonde antenna may
further include one or more satellite navigation system antennas
and one or more sonde antenna coils such that all antennas within
the node share a common center (i.e., a GPS antenna phase center
and a sonde outer coil centroid at a fixed point in space relative
to the antenna structures. For example, the combined GPS and sonde
antenna node 3110 of FIGS. 31 and 32 may include a GPS antenna 3112
and a sonde antenna 3114 aligned with the GPS antenna 3112 nested
within the sonde antenna 3114 such that the GPS antenna 3112 and
the sonde antenna 3114 share a common center. The GPS antenna 3112
may be similar to the GPS antenna 224 disclosed with respect to
FIGS. 2A-3 and further configured to receive GPS and/or other
satellite navigation system for purposes of determining position
and/or precisely keeping time. The sonde antenna 3114 may be a
singular or multiple antenna coils in various geometries configured
to transmit output current signals which may further be induced
onto utility lines and/or other nearby conductors and/or received
by a corresponding locator. In some embodiments the GPS antenna and
coupled sonde may be disposed on a user's back, such as in the form
of a combined GPS and sonde mast antenna system. Additional sonde
elements may include driver circuitry to generate current signals
to be applied to the sonde coils and/or power supply modules, such
as in the form of wired power and/or batteries to power the sonde
and driver circuitry. In some embodiments, the sonde antenna 3114
and/or other sonde antennas may further be configured to receive
signal(s) from other elements of the locator system. Further
disclosures regarding sonde antenna embodiments that may be used in
conjunction with the disclosures here are detailed in the
incorporated patents and patent applications.
[0101] In some embodiments, an antenna mast, such as the antenna
masts 222, may be configured to be removable from the tray
apparatus 120 and further be configured to be re-attached directly
to an enabled transmitter device or other enabled system device,
thereby allowing for the various attachments or devices to operate
with the transmitter device or other system devices without the
presence of the tray apparatus 120. Specialized compartments for
other job site tools, devices, and or other apparatus, such as one
or more ground stakes 230 and marking paint canisters 240, may also
be included. For example, cutouts or other structures may be formed
or molded to receive spray cans, which are commonly used during
locate operations. These may be formed as receptacle features, such
as paint canister receptacle features 245 as shown, or in other
shapes or forms to receive and retain cans or other paint
containers or receptacles.
[0102] In the tray apparatus 120, the ground stake 230 may be
configured to be attached to and transported within a ground stake
receptacle element 235. The ground stake receptacle element 235 may
utilize internal magnets to aid in holding one or more ground
stakes 230 in place, such as in an area of the tray formed or
molded to receive a ground stake.
[0103] Paint canister receptacle features 245 formed or molded or
attached to the tray apparatus 120 may hold marking paint canisters
240 in place when not in use. In other embodiments, different
quantities of such receptacles may be included. Further, in some
alternative embodiments, other tool specific receptacles, such as,
for example, flag marker or wrench receptacles may also be
included. Further details regarding the ground stake receptacle
element embodiment 235 and the paint canister receptacle feature
embodiment 245 are described in subsequent paragraphs. The tray
apparatus embodiment 210 may be fitted with a shoulder strap 250,
or other carrying structure, which may secure to shoulder strap
mounting elements 255 on two sides of the tray apparatus 120. As
illustrated in FIG. 2B, the tray apparatus 120 may include one or
more storage drawers 260 allowing for further storage of tools or
other items.
[0104] Turning to FIGS. 3-5B, the tray apparatus embodiment 120 may
be configured to be removably attachable to the transmitter module
110 and/or to an associated transmitter element body or frame. In
an exemplary embodiment as shown, the transmitter element may be
integral with the body or frame; however, in some embodiments the
tray apparatus may be separately attachable to the body or frame.
Further, in some embodiments the transmitter element may be
separately removably attachable to the body or frame (not shown).
The removable attachment may be implemented using various
attachment mechanisms as are known or developed in the art. For
example, in an exemplary embodiment as best illustrated in FIGS.
4-5B, the tray apparatus 120 may include one or more latch
mechanisms 410 that when released allow the tray apparatus 120 to
be freed and pulled away from the transmitter module 110.
[0105] Turning to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the latch mechanisms 410 may
further comprise a latch element 412, a spring 414, and spring
retainer nubbin 416 formed on the body of the tray apparatus 120.
One end of each of the springs 414 may secure to a spring retainer
nubbins 416. The opposite end of each spring 414 may secure to one
of the latch elements 412. Each latch element 412 may be configured
to secure about the top and bottom of a lip feature 512 formed
about the transmitter device 110.
[0106] When a rotational force, such as the rotational force 520 as
illustrated in FIG. 5B, is applied to each of the latch elements
412 the springs 414 may compress, allowing the latch element 412 to
pivot and free the tray apparatus 120 from the transmitter module
110. The tray apparatus 120 may then be lifted upward away from the
transmitter module 110. In alternative embodiments in keeping with
the present disclosure, other latch mechanisms or other attachment
mechanisms, such as hinges, pins, clips, screws or other threaded
connectors, or other attachment mechanisms may also be used to dock
a tray apparatus with a transmitter device.
[0107] Turning to FIG. 6, the transmitter module 110 may include a
top shell half 610 and a bottom shell half 620. The top shell half
610 may include a series of accessory device and clamp jacks 612,
whereby a series of clamps and other accessory devices (described
in subsequent paragraphs) may be connected to the transmitter
module 110. Electrical power and/or data link communication may be
established with the transmitter module 110 through such accessory
device and clamp jacks 615.
[0108] Still referring to FIG. 6, a lip feature 512 on the
transmitter module 110 may be formed where the top shell half 610
and the bottom shell half 620 meet in assembly. A series of clips
625 may secure about the lip feature 512 so as to secure the top
shell half 610 and the bottom shell half 620 together. The
transmitter element may include or be coupled to a battery dock or
other coupling element. For example, the battery dock may include
two battery contacts or terminals 630, which may secure to the top
surface of the top shell half 610 by a series of battery terminal
screws 632 or other connectors. In use, one or more batteries, such
as batteries 640, may connect to the transmitter device 610 through
the battery terminals 630 and be used to power the transmitter
module 110 and/or other attached accessories/devices.
[0109] For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the battery may be
an intelligent battery configured similarly to those disclosed in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/532,721 entitled MODULAR
BATTERY PACK APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS filed Jun. 25, 2012,
the content of which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety. In alternative embodiments, a different quantity and/or
type of batteries may be used. Some embodiments may also include
indicators, for instance audible or visual indicators, to indicate
available power left on batteries or other battery or system power
data or information. Some such indicators may individual indicators
for each battery and audible indicators for low battery
warnings.
[0110] The batteries 640 may electrically connect to a PCB stack
650 within the transmitter module 110. The PCB stack 650 may within
the bottom shell half 620. Various electronic components,
processor(s), and/or sensors not illustrated in FIG. 6 may be
included in the PCB stack 650, such as processing elements, power
circuits, control circuits, voltage and/or current sensors, and the
like to generate signals in transmitter module 110, with the output
signals then directly and/or indirectly coupled onto utilities,
such as conductive underground pipes or other utilities having
conductive tracer wires and the like. The output signals may be
generated based in part on sensor information, such as to be time
or phase synchronized and/or otherwise adjusted based on locator or
transmitter position or location. Such sensors may include, but are
not limited to, inertial sensors, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, gyroscopic
sensors, and compass sensors. Such embodiments may be configured to
receive data from the positioning system devices, determine a
transmitter devices own location and/or determine and/or track the
relative location of other enabled system devices, such as enabled
utility locators. For example, utility locator positional
information may be determined simultaneously to that of the
transmitter, and the relative position between the two devices may
also be determined.
[0111] Still referring to FIG. 6, two handle mount elements 660 may
secure to the top of the top shell half 610 by handle screws 665 so
as to attach a handle 670 about the top of the transmitter element
110. The handle 670 may aid in ease of transport of the transmitter
element 110 and/or overall transmitter with dockable tray system
100. In assembly, each of the handle mount elements 660 may be
positioned about the bottom of the handle 670 such that, when
attached to the top shell half 610 of the transmitter element 110
by handle screws 665, the bottom section of the handle 670 may be
trapped by a lip on the handle mount element 660 and secure in
place the handle 670.
[0112] Turning to FIG. 7, an alternative transmitter system
embodiment 700 may include the assembly of transmitter element
embodiment 110 as illustrated in FIG. 6 with the addition of an
induction coil 710 or coil 720 which may have a magnetic core such
as the ferrite core 722. The induction coil 710 may secure within
the top shell half 610 and bottom shell half 620 and be configured
to induce current signals into utility lines, pipes, and/or other
conductors from provided transmitter output signals.
[0113] As illustrated in FIGS. 8-10, some example clamps and other
devices are shown. These devices may be connected through the
accessory device and clamp jacks 615 (FIG. 6) and used with the
transmitter element 110 (FIG. 6). Various other clamps, devices,
and other accessories may also connect to a transmitter device in
keeping with the present disclosure through the accessory device
and clamp jacks, such as the accessory device and clamp jacks 615
illustrated in FIG. 6 and/or via other connection mechanism for
connecting such clamps, devices, and/or other accessories. In
various embodiments, clamps and associated elements, such as, for
example, are described in co-assigned U.S. Patent Application Ser.
No. 61/859,718 which is incorporated herein by reference, may be
included in embodiments with the various elements and
configurations as described herein.
[0114] In FIG. 8, direct connect clamps 810 may connect to a
transmitter element 110 (FIG. 6) through an accessory device clamp
jack 615 (FIG. 6) to provide a low resistance physical contact
connection to the buried utility or a conductor connected to the
utility. The direct connect clamps 810 may be configured to pinch
open as illustrated and clamp back closed to grip a utility line,
pipe, ground stake, and/or other conductor. Disclosures of example
clamp embodiments that may be used in conjunction with the
disclosures here in various embodiments are described in
co-assigned U.S. Pat. No. 7,288,929, entitled INDUCTIVE CLAMP FOR
APPLYING SIGNAL TO BURIED UTILITIES, issued Oct. 30, 2007, the
entirety of which is included by reference herein. In the various
clamps and other attachment devices, such as the direct connect
clamps 810, a data-link may be established to an enabled
transmitter, locator, and/or other systems allowing for the
exchange of sensor or other data and commands.
[0115] In FIG. 9, a transmitter clamp 910 may connect to a
transmitter element 110 (FIG. 6) through an accessory device clamp
jack 615 (FIG. 6) and clamp to an accessible utility line or other
conductor. In some applications, multiple clamps, such as multiple
transmitter clamps 910, may be used simultaneously. In such
applications, a transmitter in keeping with aspects of the present
disclosure may be configured for multiplexing output signals in
time and/or frequency through the different clamps and/or other
active and passive signal inducing accessory devices. The
transmitter clamp 910 may have a polarization indicator, such as
the indicator mark 912, to indicate the orientation by which each
transmitter clamp 910 should be attached to the utility and or
other conductor such that an enabled locator may be phase
synchronized with the transmitted signal or signals. In the
transmitter clamp 910, a utility type selector 914 may allow the
user to indicate the utility type by which the transmitter clamp
910 is connected (e.g., gas line, water line, sewer line, etc.).
The utility type selector may generate a signal to be provided to
the transmitter element so as to define a utility type to which the
clamp is coupled and to select appropriate frequencies based at
least in part on the selected type. The utility type information
may be communicated via either a wired or wireless connection
between the clamp and the transmitter. Details of this
functionality are further described subsequently herein.
[0116] In the various clamps and other attachment devices, such as
the transmitter clamp 910, a data-link may be established to an
enabled transmitter and/or other systems allowing for the exchange
of sensor or other data and commands. Various clamp configurations
may include a data sensor or interface and/or a wired or wireless
data communications module to provide information from the clamp,
such as voltage, current, power, phase, and the like, to other
devices in wireless communication, such as an associated locator or
other electronic computing system. In some embodiments, data from
sensors in the clamp may be provided to the transmitter element via
wired or wireless connections, and may then be further
communicated, such as via a wireless communications module in or
coupled to the transmitter element, to associated devices such as
locators, cellular phones, tablets, or other electronic computing
devices or systems.
[0117] In FIG. 10, an inductive device, such as Hi-Q induction
device 1010, may be connected to a transmitter element 110 (FIG. 6)
through an accessory device clamp jack 615 (FIG. 6). In use, a Hi-Q
inductive device 1010 may be configured to induce signal onto
utilities, pipes, and/or other conductors without establishing a
direct connection. In the various clamps and other attachment
devices, such as the Hi-Q induction device 1010, a data-link may be
established to an enabled transmitter and/or other systems allowing
for the exchange of sensor or other data and commands. In some
embodiments, data from sensors in the Hi-Q induction device may be
provided to the transmitter element via wired or wireless
connections, and may then be further communicated, such as via a
wireless communications module in or coupled to the transmitter
element, to associated devices such as locators, cellular phones,
tablets, or other electronic computing devices or systems.
[0118] Turning to FIG. 11, a transmitter element in keeping with
aspects of the present disclosure, such as the transmitter element
embodiment 110, may be configured to induce signals onto multiple
utility lines and/or other conductors, either sequentially or
simultaneously. Each connected utility line and/or other conductor
may be induced with the same or different frequencies
simultaneously and/or sequentially. The signals may be generated in
a transmitter element embodiment such as the embodiment 2000 as
shown in FIG. 20 and described subsequently herein. For example, a
processing module 2010 may control generation of one or more output
current signals from an output current signal module 2030, which
may include analog and/or digital electronics to generate output
current signals at desired amplitudes, frequencies, duty cycles,
phases, and other waveform features. The output current signals may
be sensed by one or more output current sensors 2033 as shown, with
sensed information provided back to the output current signal
module 2030 and/or processing element or module 2010.
[0119] Various multiplexing schemes, such as the multiplexing
methods described subsequently with respect to FIGS. 12A to 12F,
may be used in various embodiments and applications of a
transmitter device system in keeping with the present disclosure.
These may be implemented in, for example, a transmitter element
embodiment such as embodiment 2000 as shown in FIG. 20. Code to
implement these schemes may be stored or loaded into memory spaces
in memory module 2020 and then executed in processing module 2010
to control output current generation from output current signal
module 2030. Alternate configurations of code, processing
functionality, and output analog and digital circuitry for
generating the current signals may also be used in alternate
embodiments.
[0120] A locator device that is time synchronized with such a
transmitter device coupled to and multiplexing different
frequencies through multiple utility lines simultaneously and/or at
varied time intervals may be configured to identify and determine
the positions and/or other information of each utility line either
in an absolute sense or with respect to each other. Various time
synchronization methods may be used including, but not limited to,
the use of GPS or other GNS sensors with precise timing and/or
other ways to synchronize timing of all system devices, or through
use of other timing systems, such as dedicated time synchronization
systems or systems provided time information as one output type.
Description of example apparatus and methods for providing time
synchronization between locators and transmitters as may be used in
various embodiments in conjunction with the disclosures herein are
described in the incorporated applications, including, for example,
co-assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/570,211, entitled
PHASE-SYNCHRONIZED BURIED OBJECT LOCATOR APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND
METHODS, filed Aug. 8, 2012, which is incorporated by reference
herein.
[0121] FIG. 12A to 12F illustrate various example transmitted
signal embodiments. It is noted that the signals shown in FIGS. 12A
to 12F are provided for purposes of explanation, not limitation,
and that various other signal sequences and timing may be used in
various embodiments. FIG. 12A illustrates exemplary signal
sequences where a transmitter in keeping with the present
disclosure may, at three utilities or other conductors,
simultaneously send output current signals, which may result in
generation of corresponding magnetic fields, at three frequencies.
In FIG. 12A, as well as FIGS. 12B-12F, output signals are divided
into slots of equal time duration, although the slots need not be
equal in time in some embodiments. In an exemplary embodiment the
time slots are at least partially non-overlapping, however, in
other embodiments two or more slots may overlap.
[0122] In some embodiments, the duration of this time slot may
allow for a complete phase of each used frequency. A clamp 1, for
instance, connected to a first utility line may be used to induce a
frequency 1 in slot 1 of sequence 1210A, a clamp 2 connected to a
second utility line may be used to induce a frequency 2 in slot 1
of sequence 1220A, and a clamp 3 connected to a third utility line
may be used to induce a frequency 3 in slot 1 of sequence 1230A. In
FIG. 12A, a switching of frequencies 1, 2, and 3 may occur in
successive time slots whereby each frequency is used in each
sequence for each clamp as shown.
[0123] In an exemplary embodiment, the various frequencies may
include, but are not limited to, 810 kHz, 8,910 kHz, 80,190 kHz,
400,950 kHz, and 481,140 kHz. In some embodiments it may be
desirable to maintain complete phase of each signal at the
different frequencies in successive slots. This may be advantageous
for a locator operation with respect to input filtering or other
signal processing. For example, the time frame of each transmitted
signal may include, but is not limited to, 1/60 of a second, 1/50
of a second, 1/25 of a second, or 1/30 of a second to maintain a
complete power line frequency phase of the aforementioned exemplary
frequencies. Other switching time frames which may allow for a
complete phase of each used frequency may be dependent upon the
selected frequencies. Furthermore, the number of frequencies used
may not be dependent upon the number of clamps and/or other
attached signal inducing devices coupled to utility lines. In
various embodiments, one or more frequencies may be cycled through
one or more clamps and/or other attached signal inducing
devices.
[0124] FIG. 12B illustrates details of another embodiment of a
signaling sequence using a single frequency. Signals may be sent at
different frequencies simultaneously (as shown in FIG. 12A) and/or
signals may be turned off in all but one utility during a given
time slot. For example, 1210B illustrates a sequence of
transmission of frequency 1 from clamp 1 in slot 1, with output
then off for the next two slots and then repeated in slot 4. The
transmission of frequency 1 may occur in time slot 2 in sequence
1220B and time slot 3 in sequence 1230B. FIG. 12C illustrates
another embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. 12B, but using two
frequencies, rather than one. In this case, sequences 1210C, 1220C,
and 1230C each send frequency 1 and frequency 2, with off slots in
between as shown.
[0125] Turning to FIG. 12D, four frequencies are shown used in
sequences 1210D, 1220D, and 1230D. It is further noted that, while
the sequences shown herein are illustrated as being periodic, they
need not be. For example, a predefined pseudo-random sequence may
be used, in which case, the sequence is preferable known or
communicated to a corresponding locator or other communicatively
coupled device. An example of such as sequence is shown in FIG.
12E, where each of sequences 1210E, 1220E, and 1230E may be
selected, in time and/or frequency, based on some periodic or
non-periodic sequence, such as a pseudo-random sequence. Other
sequences, such as sequences using more slots of a particular
frequency, dynamically determined frequencies, or other variations
may also be used in some embodiments.
[0126] Turning to FIG. 12F, a transition window, such as transition
window 1240, may be used between time slots, such as between slots
in sequences 1210F, 1220F, and 1230F as shown. The transition
window 1240 may be used to allow for the ramping up of and/or down
of current within the transmitter device in preparation of
switching frequencies in each sequence.
[0127] Turning to FIG. 12G, in some embodiments the switching of
frequencies may be adaptive whereby the transmitted frequency or
frequencies may be determined by the nearest utility or utilities.
In a step 1250, the locator and/or other system devices may resolve
location of utility lines, pipes, and/or other conductors in
respect to the locator based on a utility type. This step may
include data collection from one or more connected systems and
devices (typically from all). In some embodiments, this may further
include the use of historic data associated with the locate site.
Utility location may be directly determined via sensing the
electromagnetic signal. Such methods may also factor other sensor
data such as navigational data and/or use of various filtering
methods.
[0128] In yet other embodiments, the use of models, as described
later herein, may also be used to interpret utility location. In a
second step 1260, the closest utility line or lines in respect to
an enabled locator device may be determined. In a last step 1270,
the locator may communicate to the transmitter to induce signal
only on the identified closest utility or utilities.
[0129] This may be achieved by inducing signal only through the
clamps connected to the desired utilities. In alternative
embodiments, the user may be able to select the desired utility or
utilities and directly or indirectly communicate to the transmitter
which utility or utilities to induce signal onto. In yet some
alternative embodiments, signal may not be fully shut off from
being induced onto the undesired utility or utilities but rather
predominantly induced onto the desired utility line or lines and
occasionally induced onto the undesired utility line or lines as a
periodic check. In yet further embodiments, signal may be induced
onto all utility lines and software on the locator device may
choose to display only the desired utility.
[0130] Turning to FIG. 13, data models representing possible
utility line location may be used to determine utility location
rather than directly utilizing sensed electromagnetic data to
determine utility location. In a step 1310, a locator device and/or
other system devices may collect locate data. This data may include
the sensed electromagnetic frequencies, navigational data, and/or
other system data. In some embodiments, this may also include
predetermined map or historical site data. In a step 1320, a Kalman
filter and/or other filtering technique(s) and/or multivariate
estimation techniques may be applied to the collected data. In a
step 1330, the filtered data from step 1320 may be applied to one
or more predetermined models. In a step 1340, the model data may be
used to determine and display the utility or utilities position(s).
This process may then be repeated as necessary. In alternative
embodiments, both utility location of directly sensed data and
utility location of model determined data location may be
displayed.
[0131] Turning to FIGS. 14A and 14B, the tray apparatus embodiment
120 may include a core tray element 1410 formed, molded with, among
other features, a central opening 1412. The central opening 1412
may be dimensioned to fit a transmitter device in keeping with the
present disclosure, such as the transmitter element 110 of FIG. 1.
A series of paint canister openings 1414 may be formed or molded
along the sides of the tray apparatus 120 and may be dimensioned to
fit one end of a paint canister, such as the marking paint
canisters 240 illustrated in FIG. 2A. A paint receptacle cover 1420
may secure about each side of the core tray element 1410 containing
the paint canister openings 1414 by a series of paint receptacle
cover screws 1422 or other attachment mechanisms, such as hinges,
pins, and the like. Each paint receptacle cover 1420 may be formed
or molded with openings dimensioned to fit a paint canister, such
as the marking paint canisters 240 illustrated in FIG. 2A. In
assembly, the openings formed or molded on each paint receptacle
cover 1420 may align with a pairing one of the paint canister
openings 1414 such that when a paint canister is placed within, the
paint canister may be angled and more readily held in placed from
movements of the tray apparatus 120 during use. When assembled, the
combination of paint canister openings 1414 formed on the core tray
element 1410 and paint receptacle covers 1420 with paint receptacle
cover screws 1422 may form one embodiment of a paint canister
receptacle element 245 as illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0132] Still referring to FIGS. 14A and 14B, the core tray element
1410 may also be formed with a set of drawer slots 1416 dimensioned
to accommodate the storage drawers 260. Within each drawer slot
1416 a latch element 1430 may secure by latch element screws 1432.
The latch element 1430 may hold the storage drawers 260 in place
when closed. A hinge retainer element 1440 may secure via hinge
retainer screws 1442 within each drawer slots 1416. Additional
detail regarding the storage drawers 260 are described subsequently
herein in connection with FIGS. 15 and 16.
[0133] Still referring to FIGS. 14A and 14B, the core tray element
1410 may also be formed with one or more ground stake receptacle
element 235. Each ground stake receptacle element 235 may contain a
set of magnet retainer element 1450 and a series of magnets 1452 to
aid in holding a ground stake, such as the ground stake 230 of FIG.
2, in place. Each magnet retainer element 1450 may secure to the
ground stake receptacle element 235 by magnet retainer screws
1454.
[0134] Still referring to FIGS. 14A and 14B, one shoulder strap
mounting element 255 may secure to opposite sides of the core tray
element 1410 so that a shoulder strap such as the shoulder strap
250 of FIG. 2 may secure to the tray apparatus 120. A series of
strap mount screws 1455 may be used to secure in place each
shoulder strap mounting element 255. A core tray top element 1470
may secure to the top surface of the core tray element 1410 via a
series of top element screws 1472. The core tray top element 1470
may be formed with hole features in two corners dimensioned to hold
the end of antenna masts such as the masts 222 of FIG. 2A.
[0135] A series of mast retainer elements 1460 may secure within
corners above the core tray top element 1470 where the hole
features are located. A series of mast retainer screws 1462 may be
used to secure the mast retainer elements in place. The mast
retainer elements 1460, in conjunction with the hole features of
the core tray top element 1470, may function to aid in securing in
place masts such as the masts 222 of FIG. 2A. A front plate 1480
may secure to a front section of the core tray element 1410 via a
series of front plate screws 1482. A series of latch mechanisms
410, as described in connection with FIG. 4, may secure to the lip
of the central opening 1412 on the core tray element 1410. The
latch mechanisms 410 may be secured by a series of latch mechanism
screws 1490.
[0136] Referring to FIG. 15, each storage drawer 260 may include a
drawer element 1510 that may allow for storage of tools and/or
other items. Each drawer element 1510 may further be formed with a
latch release pocket 1512 on its front face with a central opening
formed along the bottom thereof and a hinge component pocket
feature 1514 formed along the corner of the drawer element 1510.
The latch release pocket 1512 may accommodate a latch punch element
1520 such that a narrow bottom section on the latch punch element
1520 may protrude through the central opening formed through the
bottom of the latch release pocket 1512. The latch punch element
1520 may be further formed with a punch section 1522 that may stick
upwards along a section of the top surface of the latch punch
element 1520. A latch punch retainer element 1530 may secure to the
top of the latch release pocket 1512 so as to encapsulate the latch
punch element 1520 within. A set of punch retainer element screws
1535 may secure the latch punch retainer element 1530 in place.
When in use, a user may press on the narrow bottom section of the
latch punch element 1520 made to protrude through the central
opening on the latch release pocket 1512 moving the latch punch
element 1520 upwards.
[0137] When made to move upwards, the punch section 1522 of the
latch punch element 1520 may pass through an opening 1532 formed on
the latch punch retainer element 1530 and release the latch element
1430 (illustrated in FIG. 14A) and allow the storage drawer 260 to
open. When released, the latch punch element 1520 may return via a
restoring force provided by the small springs 1540 positioned
between the latch punch element 1520 and the latch punch retainer
element 1530.
[0138] Still referring to FIG. 15, the hinge component pocket
feature 1514 may be formed to accommodate a long hinge spring 1550
with a top pivot element 1560 and a bottom pivot element 1565
secured about the respective ends thereto. A hinge component
retainer element 1570 may secure to the drawer element 1512 about
the bottom of the hinge component pocket feature 1514 via hinge
retainer screws 1572 and hold the hinge spring 1550 with top pivot
element 1560 and bottom pivot element 1565 secured within. The top
opening of the hinge component pocket feature 1514 and opening on
the hinge component retainer element 1570 may be dimensioned to
allow a section of the top pivot element 1560 and bottom pivot
element 1565 respectively to pass through while still containing
the remainder of the hinge spring 1550 with top pivot element 1560
and bottom pivot element 1565 secured in place.
[0139] As illustrated in FIG. 16, the bottom pivot element 1565 of
each drawer element 1510 may secure within a divot formed within
the bottom surface of the drawer slots 1416 on the core tray
element 1410. The top pivot element 1560 of each drawer element
1510 may secure within the hinge retainer element 1440 secured to
the top corner of the drawer slots 1416. In use, the hinge spring
1550 may be made to compress and allow the storage drawer 260 (FIG.
14B) to be removed.
[0140] Turning to FIG. 17, an alternative transmitter with dockable
tray system embodiment 1700 is illustrated. The system embodiment
1700 may include a small transmitter element embodiment 1710 and
low profile tray apparatus embodiment 1720. The transmitter element
1710 and tray apparatus 1720 may be similar to the transmitter
element 110 and tray apparatus 120 of FIGS. 1-16 in function, with
a reduced overall package size to increase portability for the
user. In an embodiment such as the system embodiment 1700, the tray
apparatus 1720 may reduce some features to allow for the reduced
size. The tray apparatus 1720 may retain some features such as, but
not limited to, a ground stake receptacle feature 1722, which may
be similar in function and design to the ground stake receptacle
element 235 of FIG. 2A, and used to transport a ground stake 1730.
A shoulder strap mounting element 1724 may also be retained to
accommodate the use of a shoulder strap, such as the shoulder strap
250 illustrated in FIG. 2A.
[0141] Turning to FIG. 18, the transmitter element 1710 may include
a top shell half 1810 and a bottom shell half 1820. The top shell
half 1810 may include a series of accessory device and clamp jacks
1815, whereby a series of clamps and other accessory devices (as
described in previous paragraphs) may be connected to the
transmitter element 1710. Electrical power and/or data link
communication may be established with the transmitter element 1710
through such accessory device and clamp jacks 1815.
[0142] Still referring to FIG. 18, in assembly a series of clips
1825 may secure the top shell half 1810 and the bottom shell half
1820 together. Two battery terminals 1830 may secure to the top
surface of the top shell half 1810 by a series of battery terminal
screws 1832. In use, one or more batteries, such as batteries 1840,
may connect to the transmitter device 1710 through the battery
terminals 1830 and be used to power the transmitter device 1710
and/or other attached accessories/devices.
[0143] For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the battery may be
an intelligent battery configured the same as or similarly to those
disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/532,721 entitled
MODULAR BATTERY PACK APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS filed Jun. 25,
2012, the content of which is incorporated by reference herein. In
alternative embodiments, a different quantity or type of batteries
may be used. Some embodiments may also include indicators, for
instance audible or visual indicators, to indicate available power
left on batteries. Some such embodiments may include individual
indicators for each battery. The batteries 1840 may electrically
connect to a PCB stack 1850 within the transmitter device 1710. The
PCB stack 1850 may secure within the bottom shell half 1820.
[0144] Various electronic components, processor(s), and/or sensors
not illustrated in FIG. 18 may be included in the PCB stack 1850 to
allow the transmitter element 1710 to directly and/or indirectly
induce signals onto conductors such as buried utility lines. Some
such sensors may include, but are not limited to, inertial sensors,
GNS, gyroscopic sensors, and compass sensors. Such embodiments may
be configured to determine a transmitter device's own location
and/or determine and/or track the relative location of other
enabled system devices, such as enabled utility locators.
[0145] Still referring to FIG. 18, two handle mount elements 1860
may secure to the top of the top shell half 1810 by a series of
handle screws 1865 so as to attach a handle 1870 about the top of
the transmitter device 1710. The handle 1870 may aid in ease of
transport of the transmitter device 1710 and/or overall transmitter
with dockable tray embodiment 1700. In assembly, each of the handle
mount elements 1860 may be positioned about the bottom of the
handle 1870 such that, when attached to the top shell half 1810 of
the transmitter device 1710, the bottom section of the handle 1870
may be secured by a lip on the handle mount element 1860 and secure
the handle 1870 in place.
[0146] Turning to FIG. 19, a latch mechanism 1910 may attach within
the central opening within the tray apparatus 1720 and be secured
in place by a series of latch mechanism screws 1912. The latch
mechanism 1910 may be similar in design and function to the latch
mechanism 410 described in relation to the embodiments of FIGS. 4
through 5B. A series of shoulder mounting element screws 1920 may
be used to secure the shoulder strap mounting element 1724 in
place.
[0147] Turning to FIG. 20, details of one embodiment of a
transmitter element 2010, which may correspond with transmitter
element 110 of FIG. 1 or transmitter element 1710 of FIG. 17, is
illustrated. Transmitter element 2010 may be mechanically and/or
electrically coupled to a removable dockable tray 2080, which may
be in accordance with any of the previously disclosed dockable tray
apparatus embodiments or their equivalents. Transmitter element
2010 may be mechanically and/or electrically or wirelessly coupled
to various transmitter system accessories such as, for example,
intelligent or non-intelligent output current clamps, intelligent
or non-intelligent batteries, external devices such as utility
locators, cellular phones, tablet devices, notebook computers,
other electronic computing devices, mobile base stations, and the
like. Intelligent clamps are output current clamps that include
sensors and processing elements along with associated analog and
digital electronics and mechanical elements for structure,
supports, and attachment to utilities. For example, an intelligent
inductive clamps may include sensors to measure current and voltage
parameters of provided output signals, time and/or position
reference modules, such as GPS modules or other time or location
modules, wired or wireless communications interfaces, such as
serial wired communication modules and/or wireless data
communications modules such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, 802.11 (WiFi),
and the like. Intelligent batteries may include various functions
such as are described in the incorporated applications.
[0148] In an exemplary embodiment as shown, transmitter element
2010 may include one or more processing elements to provide overall
operational management of the transmitter and associated functions,
as well as, in some embodiments, signal processing and/or control
functions. The processing module may be coupled to or may be
integral with one or more memory modules 2025, in which data,
instructions or code, and/or other information may be stored. The
memory modules may comprise one or more physical memory devices.
The transmitter element may include one or more wireless data
communications modules 2040 to provide data communications via
external devices, such as, for example, associated locators,
intelligent clamps, mobile base stations, cellular phones, tablet
devices, notebook computers, and/or other electronic computing
systems and devices. The transmitter element may include one or
more timing/location modules 2050 to provide location and/or timing
information. For example, module 2050 may include a receiver module
2052, such as a GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, or other location receiver
device, which may also provide time synchronization data. Timing
information provided from the module 2052 (e.g., GPS receiver) may
be provided as an output 2055 to a timing reference module 2056,
which may use the timing information to generate output signals for
use a time reference or "heartbeat" or for phase synchronization
between the transmitter and other devices, such as associated
utility locators.
[0149] The transmitter element 2010 may include a battery dock or
interface 2092, which may, for example, be an intelligent battery
interface to allow coupling of one or more intelligent batteries
2090. The dock and/or intelligent batteries may be intelligent or
"Lucid" batteries as described in the related applications. The
battery dock or interface may provide output power and/or signals,
such as data on battery condition, battery control signals,
switching information, viral data or code transfer (e.g., as
described in the related applications), and the like. In some
embodiments, two intelligent batteries may be dynamically switched
in or out depending on battery state or condition. Intelligent
batteries may also be synchronized in operation with internal
rechargeable batteries 2093, such as to allow charging of an
internal battery from an external intelligent battery.
[0150] The transmitter element may include one or more ground
connection interfaces 2035 to provide a ground connection to the
soil or other ground at a site at which a locate is being done. The
ground output may be via a clamp or other direct ohmic ground
connection. The transmitter element 2010 may include one or more
output current signal modules 2030, which may include analog and/or
digital electronics to generate output current signals at desired
frequencies, amplitudes, phase angles, and waveforms and switching
cycles. In transmitter element 2010 there are three output current
signals shown, however, various embodiments may include fewer or
more output current signals, and the output current signals may be
provided separately at the same or different frequencies, such as
described subsequently with respect to FIG. 22, or two or more
signals may be combined, such as described subsequently with
respect to FIG. 23.
[0151] In some embodiments, an intelligent clamp interface module
2032 may be included to provide an interface to an intelligent
clamp so as to receive and/or send information between the
intelligent clamp and transmitter element, as well as to supply
power to the intelligent clamp. The transmitter element may also
include an anti-theft module 2092, which may include or be coupled
to a motion or tilt sensor to provide a signal indicating movement
of the transmitter element. For example, in one embodiment, a tilt
sensor may be used to indicate motion of the transmitter element to
the processing module 2020. If this motion occurs when the
transmitting element is in a fixed location or in storage or in a
state where movement is undesired, an alarm or other theft
indication, such as a buzzer, lights, paging signal, text message,
or other signaling may be provided to a user to indicate possible
theft. The transmitter element may also include a user interface
module to receive user inputs (e.g., in the form of a keypad,
mouse, magnetically sensed user interface device, joystick,
switches, and the like) and provide user outputs, such as on a
display or via lights or audible indications. User interface
functions such as inputs or output information may also be provided
via the wireless data communications module 2040, such as to
external devices such as cellular phones, tablets, computers, or
associated locators or mobile base stations. Accessories 2083, such
as clamps and the like as described herein, may be attached or
stored in the tray accessory 2080 during either transportation or
operation of the transmitting system.
[0152] As noted previously herein, in some embodiments, output
current signals may be provided at multiple frequencies on either a
single output current channel or multiple channels, and via either
direct or indirect coupling clamps. FIG. 21 illustrates details
2100 of one embodiment of multi-frequency output signal waveform
generation. In this example embodiment, signals at three
frequencies, denoted as 2110A, 2110B, and 2110C are generated, such
as in a processing element in the form of a digital signal
processor (DSP) or other processing device and converted from
digital to analog form in an analog-to-digital converter (A/D). Two
or more of the resulting signals at different frequencies may then
be added together to form combined signal 2012, and may then be
further processed, such as via amplification, filtering, and the
like, before being provided to an output current clamp (direct or
indirect).
[0153] In some embodiments, multiple output current signals may be
provided. Generation of output current signals as shown in FIG. 21,
with multiple frequency signals combined to generate a single
output current signal, may be used. Further, in embodiments of
transmitter elements with multiple outputs, different combinations
of output frequency signals may be provided on different output.
For example, a first output may include the set of three
frequencies as shown in FIG. 21, wherein as a second output may
include a set of three different frequencies. These frequencies
may, for example, be selected from a table of frequencies, such as
the frequency tables shown in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26.
[0154] FIG. 22 illustrates details of one embodiment of apparatus
2200 for providing a plurality of output current signals from a
transmitting element at three different frequencies to three
different outputs. It is noted that, in some embodiments, that two
or more of the output signals may be provided at the same frequency
rather than at the three different frequencies as shown, and that
fewer or more than three output signals may be provided in various
embodiments.
[0155] In operation, a timing or heartbeat signal 2213 may be
generated in the transmitting element, such as in the
location/timing module 2050 as shown in FIG. 20 of transmitting
element 2010. This timing signal may be used by a processing module
and output circuitry 2220 to generate output signals in particular
time slots, such as described previously herein. The outputs 2210
may then be provided to output conditioning circuits 2232 and
output couplers 2234, with the resulting current signals then
flowing in one or more utilities.
[0156] FIG. 23 illustrates details of another embodiment of an
apparatus 2300 for providing multi-frequency output current signals
from a transmitting element. In operation, a timing or heartbeat
signal 2313 may be generated in the transmitting element, such as
in the location/timing module 2050 as shown in FIG. 20 of
transmitting element 2010. This timing signal may be used by a
processing module and output circuitry 2320 to generate output
signals, which may be in particular time slots at different
frequencies, such as described previously herein. Two or more of
the outputs 2310 may be combined and provided to an output coupling
element, such as an inductive clamp. For example, low frequency and
medium frequency signals 2310A and 2310B may be added together in a
summing device 2333 and then provided to an output amplifier 2340.
High frequency signal 3210C may be coupled, via coupling
transformer 2334 and capacitor 2337, or other coupling elements, to
the amplifier 2340 output, with the resulting multi-frequency
output current signal 2312 provided to an inductive clamp for
application to a utility. It is noted that the amplitudes of the
various component signals in either embodiment 2200 or 2300 may be
different. For example, the amplitudes of the output signals may
increase with frequency as shown in FIG. 23, with the higher
frequency signal having a substantially larger amplitude that the
lower frequency signals (the lower frequency signals may be
constrained in amplitude for, for example, safety reasons.
[0157] FIG. 24 illustrates details of an embodiment 2400 of a
transmitter element 2410, which may correspond with transmitter
elements as previously described herein, coupled to both an
intelligent and a non-intelligent output current clamp, as well as
a non-intelligent ohmic (direct connect) clamp.
[0158] Transmitter element 2410 may include various modules such as
described herein including, for example, an output current signal
module for indirect (e.g., inductive) connections 2430-1, to which
a non-intelligent inductive clamp 2433 may be coupled, as well as a
direct connect clamp 2435 and associated direct connect signal
module 2430-2 for providing a direct ohmic physical output current
connection. Signals may be provided on these clamps at one or more
frequencies, during the same or alternate slots, and/or at the same
or different amplitudes. Example operating frequencies may be in
the 800 Hz range, the 8 KHz range, the 80 kHz range, and the 480
kHz range, although other frequencies or combinations of
frequencies may be used in various embodiments.
[0159] The transmitter element 2410 may also be coupled, via an
intelligent clamp interface module 2432, to one or more intelligent
clamps 2434. These intelligent clamps may include analog and/or
digital electronics and sensors to generate and communicate data or
information between the intelligent clamp 2434 and either the
transmitter element 2410 or external devices, such as associated
utility locators, tablets, cellular phones, notebook computers,
other electronic computing systems, and/or mobile base stations.
Intelligent clamp 3434 may include an antenna and a wireless data
communications module (not shown) to wirelessly send or receive
data from other devices, such as the transmitter element and any
associated utility locators.
[0160] A processing module 2420 may be used to provide signal
processing, control, and overall operations functions for the
transmitting element. One or more wireless data communications
modules 2440 may be included to communicate with intelligent clamps
or other devices, such as associated utility locators, smart
phones, tablets, notebook computers, other electronic computing
systems, and/or mobile base stations.
[0161] FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate embodiment of an example
frequency table for multi-frequency transmitter operation as may be
used with the various multi-frequency embodiments described
previously herein. The frequencies in table 2500 are selected so as
to avoid harmonics from 60 Hz power, but various other frequencies
may be used in alternate embodiments. Similarly, the frequencies in
table 2600 are selected so as to avoid harmonics from 50 Hz power,
but various other frequencies may be used in alternate embodiments.
The color coding is standards-based for particular utility types,
and the lower four rows of the table are for sondes or induction
usage.
[0162] Table 2500 was derived based on the following constraints:
1) Avoid odd harmonics+/-30 Hz, avoid even harmonics+/-10 Hz; 2)
Keep Medium direct connect frequencies just under the 9 kHz FCC
limit for unlimited power; 3) Cluster frequencies, including sonde
and induction frequencies, as close together as possible (e.g., 20
Hz spacing) to narrow mixer ranges and filtering ranges for output
circuits; 4) Keep the very high frequencies (for US, 60 Hz use)
under 490 kHz.
[0163] Table 2600 was derived based on the following constraints:
1) Avoid odd harmonics+/-26 Hz, avoid even harmonics+/-8 Hz; 2)
Cluster frequencies, including sonde and induction frequencies, as
close together as possible (e.g., 16 Hz spacing) to narrow mixer
ranges and filtering ranges for output circuits; 3) Keep the very
high frequencies (for 50 Hz world use) under 133 kHz.
[0164] In an example operation, unique frequencies are used for
particular utility types. For example, inductive clamp #1 or direct
connect #2 may be set to the "Electric" frequencies and might
broadcast one or more (or all) of the frequencies shown in the
table (e.g., Table 2500 or 2600). GPS phase-locking and time
synchronization, as well as use of higher voltages at higher
frequencies, may also be used in various embodiments.
[0165] In the keeping with the present disclosure, spacing between
chosen frequencies may be determined in a variety of ways and/or
using a variety of frequency selection schemes. In some such
frequency selection schemes, spacing of frequencies may be
determined by a mathematical formula. In yet further embodiments,
may be preset and/or chosen by the user and/or determined by the
device/apparatus.
[0166] Turning to FIG. 27, an exemplary embodiment of a locating
system 2700 which includes a transmitter and tray device 2710 in
conjunction with a locator 2760 is shown. The transmitter and tray
device 2710 may be configured to generate current signals to be
provided to hidden or buried utilities to induce electromagnetic
signals onto a conductor(s), such as the utility line 2720, which
is typically buried underground or otherwise at least partially
hidden from direct access. In use, a clamp 2730, which may be a
smart clamp as described previously herein may physically attach to
the utility line 2720. The clamp 2730 may be connected to the
transmitter and tray device 2710 via a cord or cable. A grounding
stake 2740 may further be connected to the transmitter and tray
device 2710 via a cord or cable and used for grounding for
instance, when the transmitter and tray device 2710 is used in a
direct connect mode. A user 2750 equipped with a corresponding
utility locator, such as locator device 2760 as shown, which is
configured to sense the emitted magnetic field signal(s) associated
with current flow in the utility 2720, may then determine
information associated with the buried utility 2720, such as depth,
position, location, orientation, conductor current, soil condition,
presence of other utilities, and the like. The locator 2760 may
further include or be communicatively coupled to a GPS system (not
shown in FIG. 27) as described subsequently herein. The GPS system
may include a combined GPS and sonde antenna array, a GPS receiver,
and sonde driver circuitry and power supplies.
[0167] Turning to FIGS. 28 and 29, the transmitter and tray device
2710 may further be comprised of a substantially lunchbox shaped
body 2810. The device body 2810 may further be formed with a handle
feature 2812 and transparent stowage port doors 2814 along the
front. The transparent stowage port doors 2814 may be configured to
open as illustrated in FIG. 29 by release the latch mechanisms
2816. One or more clamp and peripheral interface connectors 2818
may be located centrally above a rechargeable battery 2820. In an
exemplary embodiment, the battery may be an intelligent battery
configured similarly to those disclosed in U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 13/532,721 entitled MODULAR BATTERY PACK APPARATUS,
SYSTEMS, AND METHODS filed Jun. 25, 2012, the content of which is
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. As illustrated in
FIG. 28, a grounding stake 2830 may attach to the top of the
transmitter and tray device 2710 and be secured thereto in
transport and storage. Magnets (not illustrated) may be used to
secure the grounding stake 2830 in place.
[0168] Turning to FIGS. 29 and 30, stowage ports 2910 may be
accessed on the transmitter and tray device 2710 when stowage port
doors 2814 are opened. The stowage ports 2910 may be used, for
instance, for cable and tool storage. More terminals for connecting
additional clamps and/or other peripheral devices may be configured
within the stowage ports 2910 such as the stowage port interface
connectors 3010 illustrated in FIG. 30. A direct connect clamp 2920
may connect to such one of the stowage port interface connectors
3010. The transmitter and tray device 2710, as illustrated in FIGS.
29 and 30, show an intelligent clamp 2930 connected to one of the
clamp and peripheral interface connectors 2818. In other
embodiments, inductive clamps and associated elements, such as, for
example, are described in co-assigned U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 14/446,279, entitled INDUCTIVE CLAMP DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND
METHODS, filed Jul. 29, 2014, may also be used with a transmitter
and tray device such as that shown in FIGS. 27-30.
[0169] As described previously herein, in some embodiments a GPS
system or other location or positioning system may be
communicatively coupled to a locator and/or transmitter. In an
exemplary embodiment, a GPS and sonde system including a GPS and
sonde antenna array, a GPS receiver, and associated elements
including a GPS receiver module and power supply may be used to
provide data for generating a precise location, in reference
coordinates such as latitude, longitude, and/or altitude or depth,
of a buried utility or object. If the GPS antenna is located
separately from the locator, such a configuration may be used to
provide both accurate GPS location data and relative distance data
between the GPS system antenna and the locator so that an absolute
location of a buried utility can be determined, displayed on a
locator display, stored in a memory for future use, and/or
transmitted to other locate system elements or to external
computing systems or databases.
[0170] An example embodiment of such a configuration is shown in
system embodiment 3300 of FIG. 33. In this embodiment, a user 3340
has a GPS sonde system 3330 with a combined GPS and sonde antenna
array 3310 and associated electronics 3320, such as a GPS receiver,
sonde power supply and driver circuitry, and the like. This system
may be worn on the back of a user 3340 or elsewhere on the user or
positioned on the ground, another object, on a vehicle, and the
like. Satellite or other positioning system signals 3312 may be
received by the antenna array 3310, and sonde magnetic field
signals 3314 may be sent by the array 3310 and received by
omnidirectional antenna arrays of locator 3350. Locator 3350 may
also receive magnetic field signals from buried utility or object
3305. A GPS receiver module in electronics 3320 may be used to
determine reference location information, such as in
latitude/longitude/altitude coordinates or in other coordinates or
data forms, and this information may be provided to the locator
system 3350.
[0171] Electronics, such as in one or more processing elements of
locator 3350, may determine a distance L1 between the buried
utility 3305 and a reference position on the locator 3350 based on
the positioning of the locator antenna array element 3352.
Additional elements in the locator 3350 (not shown), such as an
optical or acoustic ground tracker module or other distance
measuring elements may be used to determine the distance L3 between
the locator 3350 and the ground surface 3307, and the distance L2
of the locator 3350 above the ground may be determined by
subtracting L4 (a known length of the locator) from L3.
[0172] In addition, the locator 3350 may similarly determine
relative distance information between the reference position on the
locator and the GPS antenna 3310 phase center (either based on a
shared GPS antenna phase center and sonde centroid or a known
offset between the two). This relative distance information may
then be used in the locator (and/or post-processed) to determine an
offset of the buried utility location relative to the reference
coordinates determined by the GPS receiver.
[0173] FIG. 34A illustrates details of one embodiment of a GPS and
sonde system 3400 from a side view, which may correspond with GPS
sonde system 3300 of FIG. 33. As shown in FIG. 34A, a GPS and sonde
antenna array 3410 may include a GPS disk, puck, or patch-type
antenna element 3411 and a sonde antenna element 3413 that are
integral with or coupled to each other in a fixed, known
orientation. In an exemplary embodiment the GPS antenna coil center
or centroid is at substantially the same point in space as the
sonde antenna centroid, however, in other embodiments the two may
be offset at a known distance and orientation relative to each
other. Electronics 3420 may include sonde drive circuitry 3424
and/or a power supply, such as a battery 3426, which may be an
intelligent battery as described previously herein or another
battery or power supply module. The electronics may additionally
include one or more GPS receiver modules 3422 for determining a
reference position relative to the GPS antenna phase center. In
addition the electronics may include a wired or wireless
communications module (not shown) for sending the reference
position information from the GPS and sonde system 3400 to an
associated locator (e.g., such as the locator 3350 of FIG. 33).
[0174] FIG. 34B illustrates additional details of an exemplary
embodiment of the GPS and sonde antenna array 3410 from a top view.
As shown in FIG. 34B, a sonde coil 3413, having coils wound
circularly around the circular-shaped GPS antenna element 3411, may
be fixedly coupled to GPS antenna element 3411 so that the GPS
antenna phase center and sonde coil centroid share substantially
the same point in space at point 3415. Spacers or other connection
mechanisms may be used to mechanically join elements 3411 and 3413,
or they may alternately be integral with or otherwise coupled to
each other in a fixed orientation.
[0175] In one or more exemplary embodiments, the functions,
methods, and processes described may be implemented in whole or in
part in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof.
If implemented in software, the functions may be stored on or
encoded as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable
medium. Computer-readable media includes computer storage media.
Storage media may be any available media that can be accessed by a
computer.
[0176] By way of example, and not limitation, such
computer-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or
other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic
storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or
store desired program code in the form of instructions or data
structures and that can be accessed by a computer. Disk and disc,
as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical
disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and blu-ray disc
where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs
reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above
should also be included within the scope of computer-readable
media
[0177] The various illustrative functions, modules, and circuits
described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein with
respect to locator signal processing and/or transmitter signal
switching and output signal generation and coupling, control
functions, data communication functions, wireless communications
functions, and/or other functions described herein may be
implemented or performed in one or more processing elements or
modules with a general purpose processor, a digital signal
processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC),
a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic
device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware
components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the
functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a
microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any
conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state
machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of
computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a
microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more
microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such
configuration.
[0178] Those of skill in the art would understand that information
and signals may be represented using any of a variety of different
technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions,
commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may
be referenced throughout the above description may be represented
by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or
particles, optical fields or particles, or any combination
thereof.
[0179] The disclosures are not intended to be limited to the
aspects shown herein, but are to be accorded the full scope
consistent with the specification and drawings, wherein reference
to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only
one" unless specifically so stated, but rather "one or more."
Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term "some" refers to one
or more. A phrase referring to "at least one of" a list of items
refers to any combination of those items, including single members.
As an example, "at least one of: a, b, or c" is intended to cover:
a; b; c; a and b; a and c; b and c; and a, b and c.
[0180] The previous description of the disclosed aspects is
provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use
embodiments of the present invention. Various modifications to
these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art,
and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other
aspects without departing from the spirit or scope of the
disclosure and invention. Thus, the invention is not intended to be
limited to the aspects shown herein but is to be accorded the
widest scope consistent with the appended claims and their
equivalents.
* * * * *