Nicholas James Josten

US Patent:

59071117, May 25, 1999

Filed:

Apr 8, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/841973

Inventors:

Nicholas E. Josten - Idaho Falls ID
John M. Svoboda - Idaho Falls ID

Assignee:

Lockheed Martin Idaho Technologies Company - Idaho Falls ID

International Classification:

F14H 1116

US Classification:

738665

Abstract:

A remotely controlled sensor platform apparatus useful in a dig-face characterization system is deployed from a mobile delivery device such as standard heavy construction equipment. The sensor apparatus is designed to stabilize sensors against extraneous motions induced by heavy equipment manipulations or other outside influences, and includes a terrain sensing and sensor elevation control system to maintain the sensors in close ground proximity. The deployed sensor apparatus is particularly useful in collecting data in work environments where human access is difficult due to the presence of hazardous conditions, rough terrain, or other circumstances that prevent efficient data collection by conventional methods. Such work environments include hazardous waste sites, unexploded ordnance sites, or construction sites. Data collection in these environments by utilizing the deployed sensor apparatus is desirable in order to protect human health and safety, or to assist in planning daily operations to increase efficiency.