The Ohio State University

Ross Caldecott

Jonathan D Young

Curtis W Davis, Iii

Leon Peters, Jr

A synchronizing, pick-off type circuit for use with underground detection systems of a variety utilizing a high voltage pulse generator generating pulses by dielectric breakdown over a gap and evidencing a sustained and discernable substantially lower voltage level for a short interval following the pulse. Pick-off is derived by tapping a transmitting coaxial cable with a 'T' connection carrying a choke inductor and a resistor, each of which is coupled to the central conductor of the coaxial cable and which are mutually connected in parallel circuit relationship.

Pulse shaper for coaxial cable system

An apparatus and method wherein an electrical impulse source transmits a radar-type signal through an antenna into the ground and is reflected by a target. The reflected signal or echo is detected by the antenna and an analog-to-digital converter converts it to a digital form which may be readily operated on, stored and recalled. A memory stores the information until recalled for comparison with a subsequent signal to give an indication of the location of metallic and non-metallic buried targets.

Underground pipe detector

An apparatus and method wherein an electrial impulse source transmits a radar-type signal through an antenna into the ground and is reflected by a target. The reflected signal or echo is detected by the antenna and an analog-to-digital converter converts it to a digital form which may be readily operated on, stored and recalled. A memory stores the information until recalled for comparison with a subsequent signal to give an indication of the location of metallic and non-metallic buried targets.

Antenna for underground pipe detector

An apparatus for detecting the presence of a buried, hidden object in the vicinity of a digging tool in order to prevent a human disaster and damage to utility lines or other buried structures. The apparatus includes an impulse generator and data processing means connected to a slot antenna formed in the tool of an earthmoving machine for radiating a burst of broad spectrum electromagnetic energy into the ground and for receiving and data processing reflected electromagnetic echoes. One antenna embodying the invention comprises a slot formed through a wall of a hydraulically driven shovel and filled with a ceramic absorber. The slot has four radially extending, orthogonally arranged loops having unclosed central portions of the loops joined end to end to form four apexes.

Underground, time domain, electromagnetic reflectometry for digging

An apparatus and method wherein an electrical impulse source transmits a radar-type signal through an antenna into the ground and is reflected by a target. The reflected signal or echo is detected by the antenna and an analog-to-digital converter converts it to a digital form which may be readily operated on, stored and recalled. A memory stores the information until recalled for comparison with a subsequent signal. A processing means compares the stored and subsequent signal to give an indication of the location of metallic and non-metallic buried targets.

Growing community of inventors

Columbus, OH, United States of America

Ross Caldecott