GPS-Based Excavation Encroachment Notification

Main Objective

The objective of this project is to develop, demonstrate and commercialize a system that utilizes GPS technology to allow one-call centers and utility companies to ensure that excavation activity does not encroach upon underground facilities. The developed systems will be demonstrated in a pilot program with Virginia Utility Protection Services and NiSource to assess the costs, benefits and feasibility of the system. Trimble and Metrotech are commercial partners for this program.

Public Abstract

The objective of this program is to reduce excavation damage to underground facilities by developing a system that warns 1) inspectors of excavation activity that is occurring in an area without a valid One-Call ticket and 2) excavators and operators of the proximity of excavation equipment to underground facilities. This program will develop, demonstrate and commercialize a GPS-based system that provides an early warning of encroachment. The system will use GPS antennas to monitor the location of excavation equipment to be cross-referenced with valid One-Call tickets and the location of underground facilities. The GPS coordinates of valid One-Call tickets will be known from a GPS-enabled cell phone that calls the ticket in or from polygons on One-Call Center mapping systems. The GPS coordinates of underground facilities will be collected during the mark-out process. The system will notify inspectors of excavation activity that is occurring in an area without a valid One-Call ticket or excavation activity that is encroaching upon underground facilities.

Final Report

GPS-Based EEN - Final Report (PHMSA) 2

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