Development of a Real-Time Wireless Multi-Node Metal Pipeline Localization System via Bluetooth Link

Several efforts have been approached to minimize the limitations and risks associated with current methods of locating underground pipelines in construction projects, especially during excavation operations. Traditional methods rely on flags to mark the general location of pipelines, which can be imprecise and lead to accidents. Excavation damage is a significant cause of pipeline failures, resulting in injuries, fatalities, and financial losses. To address these issues, we have been studied to accurately locate the underground ferromagnetic pipeline using magnetic anomaly detection approach using multi-dimensional magnetic sensor array using a smart external magnetic interference cancellation algorithm under the lab-based setting. To expand the successful approach in the actual construction setting, we proposed the development of a smart, real-time, wireless multi-node sensor system that uses magnetic anomaly detection algorithm on a custom smartphone app. This system aims to improve the accuracy of pipeline location detection during excavation, thereby reducing the potential for accidents and enhancing safety on construction sites. We have successfully designed and assembled the multi-node metal pipeline localization system via BLE. By attaching three modules on the excavator bucket, we were able to collect the sensor data using a custom-designed app and estimate the distance from the pipe.