Abstract

An EMF detecting safety shovel has electromagnetic field (EMF) detection circuitry operably coupled to a blade thereof for measuring changes in EMF over time (AC fields) which may be used by spotters during excavation work for detection of subsurface power supply cables. The safety shovel may be further configured for classifying different types of subsurface power cables wherein the EMF detector circuit may be configured for discriminating between low and high voltage subsurface power cables when the edge of the blade is within a certain distance thereof, and the EMF detector circuit may be adjusted to adjust the distance for use with differing conduit diameters. The EMF detector circuit may also employ bandpass filtering to discriminate between single and three phase power supplies. In this way, the present safety shovel may provide indication of the presence of subsurface power supply cables and also the type thereof.

IPC Classes  ?

• A01B 1/02 - SpadesShovels
• A01B 76/00 - Parts, details or accessories of agricultural machines or implements, not provided for in groups
• G01V 3/08 - Electric or magnetic prospecting or detectingMeasuring magnetic field characteristics of the earth, e.g. declination or deviation operating with magnetic or electric fields produced or modified by objects or geological structures or by detecting devices

Abstract

An EMF detecting safety shovel has electromagnetic field (EMF) detection circuitry operably coupled to a blade thereof for measuring changes in EMF over time (AC fields) which may be used by spotters during excavation work for detection of subsurface power supply cables. The safety shovel may be further configured for classifying different types of subsurface power cables wherein the EMF detector circuit may be configured for discriminating between low and high voltage subsurface power cables when the edge of the blade is within a certain distance thereof, and the EMF detector circuit may be adjusted to adjust the distance for use with differing conduit diameters. The EMF detector circuit may also employ bandpass filtering to discriminate between single and three phase power supplies. In this way, the present safety shovel may provide indication of the presence of subsurface power supply cables and also the type thereof.

IPC Classes  ?

• A01B 1/02 - SpadesShovels
• G01V 3/08 - Electric or magnetic prospecting or detectingMeasuring magnetic field characteristics of the earth, e.g. declination or deviation operating with magnetic or electric fields produced or modified by objects or geological structures or by detecting devices