Non-intrusive detection of live electrical lines
US8358120B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 17, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jan 22, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 12, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01V1/001
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method for determining a presence of live 3-phase electrical lines inside a buried pipe or conduit from outside the pipe or conduit and preferably from an above ground location. A sensor suitable for detecting vibratory signals is placed on the ground proximate the location of the buried pipe. The sensor is then used to determine the presence of a current frequency signal and a current harmonic frequency signal, whereby presence of the current frequency signal and/or the current harmonic frequency signal corresponds to a presence of a live 3-phase electrical line within the buried pipe or conduit. Although intended primarily for use in connection with buried pipes, the method may also be employed on exposed pipes and conduits.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.