Advances in Array GPR Solutions for 3D Underground Utility Mapping

Abstract

Advancement in the development of GPR systems now allows for rapid full 3D capture of underground assets using arrays of multi-frequency, multi-polarised GPR antenna which are either hand pushed or towed by vehicles. This rapid capture capability now allows for hundreds of thousands of square metres of georeferenced superclear 3D utility imagery to be collected on a daily basis and is complimenting traditional mark on-site locating. Not only is rapid capture of large quantities of 3D GPR utility data important, but so too is the ability to be able to process, view, interpret and then extract this utility information quickly from extremely large datasets so that deliverables can be finalised in a timely and cost effective manner. With these objectives being critical deliverables, IDS GeoRadar (part of Hexagon) have developed a revolutionary real time mapping software for their suite of array Ground Penetrating Radar systems. The “IQMaps” software in conjunction with the IDS GeoRadar Stream UP and Stream C massive array GPR systems, is a specifically designed solution to assist the utility locating industry by not only providing accurate super-clear georeferenced subsurface utility imagery in real-time, but also to enable users to swiftly extract information from this imagery and delivery final results very quickly. This means that companies involved in large projects can now be provided with geo-referenced deliverables much faster than ever before, allowing them to make decisions without significant delay to operations. This paper shows an evolution of GPR hardware and software solutions for 3D underground utility mapping

Techniques