公开(公告)号：US20090207019A1

公开(公告)日：2009-08-20

申请号：US12432849

申请日：2009-04-30

Applicant: Steven E. Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  David Pennington

Inventor： Steven E. Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  David Pennington

IPC: G08B21/00 ,  G06F3/048 ,  G06Q10/00 ,  G06Q50/00

CPC classification number: G06Q10/06395 ,  G06Q10/06 ,  G06Q10/063112 ,  G06Q10/06398 ,  G06Q10/1097 ,  G06Q50/08

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for assessing a locate and marking operation. Ticket information is received regarding the locate and marking operation prior to performance. Following performance, a locate manifest is received that includes a digital image associated with a dig area for which the operation was performed. One or more electronic indications are provided, based at least in part on a comparison of the ticket information and the locate manifest, of a quality assessment of the locate and marking operation. The electronic indication(s) indicate one of: 1) a satisfactory operation; 2) an unsatisfactory operation requiring further quality control assessment and/or at least partial re-performance; or 3) a satisfactory operation, but nonetheless requiring technician coaching. An electronic record is generated of the quality assessment of the locate and marking operation based on the electronic indication(s).

Abstract translation: 评估定位和标记操作的方法和装置。 在执行之前收到有关定位和标记操作的票证信息。 在执行之后，接收到包括与执行操作的挖掘区域相关联的数字图像的定位清单。 至少部分地基于定位和标记操作的质量评估的票据信息和定位清单的比较来提供一个或多个电子指示。 电子指示表示：1）令人满意的操作; 2）不满意的操作需要进一步的质量控制评估和/或至少部分重新执行; 或3）令人满意的操作，但仍需要技术人员的指导。 产生基于电子指示的定位和标记操作的质量评估的电子记录。

公开(公告)号：US20090204238A1

公开(公告)日：2009-08-13

申请号：US12363951

申请日：2009-02-02

Applicant: Steven E. Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr ,  Mark A. Conner ,  Rene A. Vazquez

Inventor： Steven E. Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr ,  Mark A. Conner ,  Rene A. Vazquez

IPC: G05B19/19

CPC classification number: G01C15/02 ,  G01S19/14

Abstract: A marking system may hold a container from which markers are dispensed to mark the presence or absence of an underground facility in a dig area. The container may identify a marker characteristic regarding the markers in the container. The marking system may receive activation of a trigger, dispense a marker from the container when the trigger is activated, and store the marker characteristic and time data when the trigger is activated. In other embodiments, the marking system may dispense a marker, determine location data and/or time data, and substantially simultaneously trigger the dispensing of the marker and logging of the location data and/or the time data. The location data identifies a geographic location where the marker is dispensed and the time data identifies the time when the marker is dispensed.

Abstract translation: 标记系统可以容纳从其分配标记物的容器，以在挖掘区域中标记地下设备的存在或不存在。 容器可以识别关于容器中的标记的标记特性。 标记系统可以接收触发器的激活，当触发器被激活时从容器分配标记，并且在触发器被激活时存储标记特征和时间数据。 在其他实施例中，标记系统可以分配标记，确定位置数据和/或时间数据，并且基本上同时触发标记的分配和记录位置数据和/或时间数据。 位置数据识别标记被分配的地理位置，并且时间数据识别标记被分配的时间。

公开(公告)号：US20090202111A1

公开(公告)日：2009-08-13

申请号：US12363046

申请日：2009-01-30

Applicant: Steven Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers

Inventor： Steven Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers

IPC: G06K9/00 ,  G01S1/00

CPC classification number: G06T11/60 ,  G06K9/00476 ,  G06Q10/06 ,  G06Q50/08 ,  G06T2210/62

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for generating a searchable electronic record of a locate operation in which a locate technician, using one or more physical locate marks, identifies a presence or an absence of at least one underground facility within a dig area. A digital image of a geographic area comprising the dig area is electronically received, and at least a portion of the received digital image is displayed on a display device. Location information regarding an identified location of the at least one physical locate mark is also electronically received and, based at least in part on the received location information, one or more digital representations of the identified location of the physical locate mark(s) is/are included in the displayed digital image so as to generate a marked-up digital image. Information relating to the marked-up digital image is electronically stored and/or electronically transmitted so as to generate the searchable electronic record of the locate operation.

Abstract translation: 用于生成定位操作的可搜索电子记录的方法和装置，其中定位技术人员使用一个或多个物理定位标记识别挖掘区域内的至少一个地下设施的存在或不存在。 电子地接收包括挖掘区域的地理区域的数字图像，并且将所接收的数字图像的至少一部分显示在显示装置上。 关于所述至少一个物理定位标记的识别位置的位置信息也被电子地接收，并且至少部分地基于所接收的位置信息，所述物理定位标记的所识别位置的一个或多个数字表示是/ 被包括在显示的数字图像中，以便产生标记的数字图像。 与标记的数字图像相关的信息被电子存储和/或电子传输，以便产生定位操作的可搜索的电子记录。

公开(公告)号：US06705461B2

公开(公告)日：2004-03-16

申请号：US10031667

申请日：2002-01-18

Applicant: Paul Kuharevicz ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Cory Slotman ,  Daughn Majeski

Inventor： Paul Kuharevicz ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Cory Slotman ,  Daughn Majeski

IPC: B65G2108

CPC classification number: B65G21/16 ,  B65G21/06 ,  B65G2207/30

Abstract: A modular conveyor system (10) comprising multiple modules, such as a straight module (18), a powered module (20), a return module (23), and a radius turn module (22). The modules can be directly connected or connected by one or more connection assemblies (26). The radius turn module includes bendable side walls (131) that can be combined or cut as needed to obtain the desired angle of turn.

Abstract translation: 包括多个模块的模块化输送系统（10），诸如直模块（18），动力模块（20），返回模块（23）和半径转弯模块（22）。 模块可以由一个或多个连接组件（26）直接连接或连接。 半径转向模块包括可弯曲的侧壁（131），其可以根据需要组合或切割以获得期望的回转角度。

公开(公告)号：US09563863B2

公开(公告)日：2017-02-07

申请号：US12703809

申请日：2010-02-11

Applicant: Steven Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr

Inventor： Steven Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr

IPC: G06Q10/06 ,  G06Q10/10 ,  B05B12/08 ,  B05B12/12 ,  B65D83/20

CPC classification number: G06Q10/063 ,  B05B12/08 ,  B05B12/12 ,  B65D83/203 ,  G06Q10/06 ,  G06Q10/0631 ,  G06Q10/06311 ,  G06Q10/063112 ,  G06Q10/0633 ,  G06Q10/06398 ,  G06Q10/103

Abstract: Marking apparatus and methods, in which first ticket information relating to a locate request ticket is received, and second ticket information derived from the first ticket information is displayed on a display device of the marking apparatus. A field technician may provide some input to generate an electronic record or log of technician activity during a marking operation. In one example, a checklist may be generated (e.g., based at least in part on the first ticket information) and displayed locally to the technician as a guide to perform and verify various aspects of the operation. In another example, a set of instructions or “workflow” may be generated to guide the technician through a sequence of steps to perform the marking operation. Performance via a process guide (e.g., checklist or workflow) may be interactive in that the technician may provide input, or automated/semi-automated by analyzing various information collected by the marking apparatus with respect to the ticket information and/or other available information germane to the operation.

Abstract translation: 其中接收到与定位请求单相关的第一票信息和从第一票信息导出的第二票信息的标记装置和方法被显示在标记装置的显示装置上。 现场技术人员可以提供一些输入以在标记操作期间生成电子记录或技术人员活动记录。 在一个示例中，可以生成清单（例如，至少部分地基于第一票据信息），并且在本地显示给技术人员作为执行和验证操作的各个方面的指导。 在另一示例中，可以生成一组指令或“工作流程”，以引导技术人员执行一系列步骤来执行标记操作。 通过过程指南（例如，清单或工作流程）的性能可以是互动的，因为技术人员可以通过分析由标记设备收集的关于票据信息和/或其他可用信息的各种信息来提供输入或自动/半自动化 与操作密切相关。

公开(公告)号：US09208458B2

公开(公告)日：2015-12-08

申请号：US12571356

申请日：2009-09-30

Applicant: Steven E. Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr

Inventor： Steven E. Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr

IPC: G06Q10/06

CPC classification number: G06Q10/06 ,  G06Q10/06395

Abstract: Methods, apparatus and systems including a computer comprising at least one hardware processor, at least one tangible storage medium (memory), and at least one input/output (I/O) interface for evaluating a quality of a locate and/or marking operation. First information relating to the locate and/or marking operation is compared to second information obtained from at least one facilities map. One or more indications of a quality assessment of the locate and/or marking operation is automatically generated based on such a comparison, and the one or more indications of the quality assessment are electronically stored on the at least one tangible storage medium, and/or electronically transmitted via the at least one I/O interface, so as to provide an electronic record of the quality assessment.

Abstract translation: 包括计算机的方法，装置和系统包括至少一个硬件处理器，至少一个有形存储介质（存储器）以及用于评估定位和/或标记操作的质量的至少一个输入/输出（I / O）接口 。 将与定位和/或标记操作相关的第一信息与从至少一个设施图获得的第二信息进行比较。 基于这样的比较，自动地产生对定位和/或标记操作的质量评估的一个或多个指示，并且质量评估的一个或多个指示被电子地存储在至少一个有形存储介质上，和/或 通过至少一个I / O接口电子传输，以便提供质量评估的电子记录。

公开(公告)号：US08934678B2

公开(公告)日：2015-01-13

申请号：US12239414

申请日：2008-09-26

Applicant: Steven Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers

Inventor： Steven Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers

IPC: G06K9/00 ,  G01V8/10 ,  G06T17/05

CPC classification number: G01V8/10 ,  G06T17/05

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for facilitating detection of a presence or an absence of at least one underground facility within a dig area. A digital image of a geographic area including the dig area is electronically received at a first user location remote from the dig area, and at least a portion of the received digital image is displayed on a display device at the first user location remote from the dig area. One or more indicators are added to the displayed digital image, via a user input device associated with the display device, to provide at least one indication of the dig area and thereby generate a marked-up digital image. Information relating to the marked-up digital image is electronically transmitted and/or electronically stored so as to facilitate the detection of the presence or the absence of the at least one underground facility within the dig area.

Abstract translation: 用于便于检测挖掘区域内至少一个地下设施的存在或不存在的方法和装置。 在远离挖掘区域的第一用户位置电子地接收包括挖掘区域的地理区域的数字图像，并且接收的数字图像的至少一部分被显示在远离挖掘的第一用户位置的显示设备上 区。 通过与显示设备相关联的用户输入设备将一个或多个指示符添加到所显示的数字图像，以提供挖掘区域的至少一个指示，从而生成标记的数字图像。 与被标记的数字图像相关的信息被电子传输和/或电子存储，以便于检测挖掘区域内的至少一个地下设施的存在或不存在。

公开(公告)号：US08700445B2

公开(公告)日：2014-04-15

申请号：US12704485

申请日：2010-02-11

Applicant: Steven Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr

Inventor： Steven Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr

IPC: G06Q10/00 ,  G01V3/38 ,  G01V3/08

Abstract: A holistic approach to management and oversight of locate and marking operations is provided. Initial requests to perform such operations are improved, and such requests are intelligently assessed to appropriately allocate resources to perform operations. Technicians are effectively dispatched and may be provided with process guides to facilitate performance. A host of information regarding the performance of locate operations and their environs is acquired (e.g., via improved intelligent instrumentation employed by technicians). A quality of operations (e.g., completeness, accuracy, efficiency) is assessed, corrective actions may be taken in essentially real-time as necessary, and information regarding operations and their quality assessments is archived for auditing purposes. Relevant information is communicated to one or more parties associated with the operations; in particular, requesting parties are apprised of the status of ongoing operations, and given confirmation that operations have been performed and are completed. Requesting parties and/or other interested parties (e.g., excavators, facility owners, locate contractors, municipalities, regulators, auditors, damage investigators, insurance companies, etc.) also may be provided with detailed information regarding the performance of operations and quality assessment of same.

公开(公告)号：US20140067263A1

公开(公告)日：2014-03-06

申请号：US13834382

申请日：2013-03-15

Applicant: Steven Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr

Inventor： Steven Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr

IPC: G01C15/02

CPC classification number: G06Q10/06398 ,  G01C15/02 ,  G01C15/06 ,  G01C21/00 ,  G01S5/0294

Abstract: Marking apparatus and methods to mark ground, pavement or other surfaces to provide a visual indication of a presence or an absence of an underground utility in a dig area. An example marking tool has a hand-held housing, a marking dispenser coupled to the housing to dispense one or more markers in the dig area, and a triggering system to trigger the marking dispenser so as to dispense the marker(s). An example marking tool also may include a logging system to receive data associated with a marking event initiated by the triggering system, time tag the data, and store the time-tagged data in data storage in the marking tool.

公开(公告)号：US08612271B2

公开(公告)日：2013-12-17

申请号：US12572260

申请日：2009-10-01

Applicant: Steven E. Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr

Inventor： Steven E. Nielsen ,  Curtis Chambers ,  Jeffrey Farr

IPC: G06Q10/00

CPC classification number: H04W84/08 ,  E21B7/046 ,  E21D11/00 ,  G06Q10/06 ,  G06Q10/0639 ,  G06Q10/06395 ,  G06Q10/06398 ,  G06Q50/08 ,  H04W4/10 ,  H04W80/04

Abstract: Methods, apparatus and systems including a computer comprising at least one hardware processor, at least one tangible storage medium (memory), and at least one input/output (I/O) interface for evaluating a quality of a locate and/or marking operation. First information relating to the locate and/or marking operation is compared to second information relating to one or more environmental landmarks. One or more indications of a quality assessment of the locate and/or marking operation is automatically generated based on such a comparison, and the one or more indications of the quality assessment are electronically stored on the at least one tangible storage medium, and/or electronically transmitted via the at least one I/O interface, so as to provide an electronic record of the quality assessment.