Measuring device

Abstract

The invention relates to a measuring device comprising a distance measuring device which emits a distance measuring laser beam which is directed by the distance measuring device towards a target to be measured, and wherein the distance measuring device comprises a housing in which the light source and a laser receiver for the distance measuring laser beam are provided, and wherein the housing has a longitudinal direction and two longitudinally spaced-apart end regions, wherein a connecting element is provided at one end region, characterized in that the measuring device comprises a GNSS receiver which has a top and a bottom.wherein the underside is formed with a connection device for a rover rod and the GNSS receiver can be detachably connected to the connecting element of the range-measuring device via the connection device and the range-measuring device emits the range-measuring beam and additionally a pegged laser beam at the end region of the housing opposite the connection device in the longitudinal direction, which is also directed at the target to be measured and / or at an area immediately adjacent thereto, wherein the pegged laser beam emits in a different wavelength range than the range-measuring laser beam.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a measuring device comprising a distance measuring device which emits a distance measuring laser beam which is directed from the distance measuring device towards a target to be measured, and wherein the distance measuring device comprises a housing in which the light source and a laser receiver for the distance measuring laser beam are provided, and wherein the housing has a longitudinal direction and two longitudinally spaced end regions, wherein a connecting element is provided at one end region.

[0002] In civil engineering, it is common practice to carry out surveys before, during or after a construction phase for staking out construction elements or for creating as-built drawings.

[0003] One known method is real-time kinematic surveying, which utilizes satellite-based navigation systems. This allows for high accuracy. In addition to a so-called "reference station," namely a first antenna, a second antenna, the "rover," is required. Its position relative to the reference station is determined using a three-dimensional method. This rover is typically a GNSS receiver, especially a GPS receiver.

[0004] The reference stations can be temporary or permanent.

[0005] Such terrain surveys using a GNSS receiver have become standard practice in construction and are particularly useful for staking out and creating as-built surveys during the construction phase. The receiver is typically mounted at one end of a surveying pole, a so-called "rover," so that the receiver or rover points essentially vertically upwards. The terms "receiver," "rover," and "GNSS receiver" are synonymous and interchangeable unless otherwise indicated by the context.

[0006] It is important to know the distance between the rover and the component being measured in order to perform accurate measurements. To measure the correct height with a rover, the surveying (rover) pole must be placed directly on the element being measured (e.g., curbstone, manhole cover, survey point, water pipe). The pole height is usually read from a scale printed on the pole and manually entered into the surveying software. If the entry is forgotten or the user makes a typo, very troublesome measurement errors occur, which cannot be corrected, especially when surveying an open trench after it has been backfilled. Furthermore, not every element to be measured is easily or even accessible, for example, in deep trenches or when the pole cannot be held straight, such as when it is directly against a wall.

[0007] Furthermore, it is often undesirable for people to work with surveying rods in the trenches or on the edges of the trenches, as such work can be associated with a high risk of accidents.

[0008] It is also known to provide a tilt measuring device in the rover, e.g. an internal spirit level that detects and takes into account a tilt.

[0009] Furthermore, laser measuring devices are also known that allow distance measurement from the device to an element. One example is EP 3 182 066 A1, which describes a laser-based measurement between a receiver and a target located on the ground.

[0010] Often, a straightforward surveying method is desirable, one that is less complex, both in terms of equipment and financially.

[0011] Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a measuring device that is versatile and enables precise measurement or recording of elements in civil engineering in a particularly simple and flexible way, without having to resort to a surveying rod.

[0012] The invention solves this problem by means of a distance measuring device with the features of claim 1.

[0013] The measuring device comprises a GNSS receiver having a top and a bottom surface, the bottom surface being equipped with a connecting device, and the GNSS receiver being detachably connectable to the connecting element of the distance measuring device via the connecting device, and the distance measuring device emitting the distance measuring beam and additionally a pegged laser beam from the longitudinally opposite end region of the housing at the connecting element, the pegged laser beam also being directed towards the target to be measured and / or towards an area immediately adjacent thereto, wherein the pegged laser beam emits in a different wavelength range than the distance measuring laser beam.

[0014] The connection device of the GNSS receiver, also referred to as a rover, can preferably be designed in such a way that it is also connectable or compatible with a conventional rover pole.

[0015] This method provides a measuring device that is particularly easy and flexible to use. By directly coupling the distance measuring device to a rover using a laser, the two central components for surveying can be connected in a particularly space-saving and weight-saving manner. Furthermore, the rover can also be used with a standard rover pole. The distance measuring device can also be used separately.

[0016] A rover designed according to the invention has the advantage over a conventional GNSS receiver or rover that, even if the latter has integrated laser measurement, the measurement according to the invention can be performed downwards from the rover using the distance-measuring laser beam, and this is particularly and especially preferably also centrally or in the middle of the rover, without any offset. That is, the measurement can be performed on the axis in which the rover rod would otherwise be arranged.

[0017] The accuracy of a rover measurement decreases significantly with increasing tilt. If a distance-measuring laser integrated into a rover protrudes laterally from the rover housing, the GNSS receiver would have to be held at an angle, or even a very steep angle, to take a downward measurement. The accuracy then depends on the internal direction measurement and is neither obvious nor predictable for the user. Since the distance measuring device is connected to the GNSS receiver or rover via the rover's connection device and a connecting element on the distance measuring device (which is already provided on the GNSS receiver for connection to a rover pole), this disadvantage is eliminated. This is because the measurement direction is directly downwards, i.e., towards the object to be measured, and preferably also centrally, or, if the GNSS receiver is not rotationally symmetrical, then at its center of gravity.

[0018] This also results in an improvement in measurement compared to measurements using distance measuring devices located on the rover pole.

[0019] Furthermore, the elongated shape and extended length of the rangefinder significantly improve the aiming of the element to be measured, as this facilitates targeting and prevents camera shake. Additionally, the sufficient length of the rangefinder allows for a favorable center of gravity for the measuring device, consisting of the GNSS receiver and rangefinder, which also contributes to the reliable acquisition of measurement data.

[0020] To further facilitate holding and aiming at an element for measurement, the distance measuring device can be connected to a rod element, particularly a telescopic rod element. The telescopic rod element can be length-adjustable and, in particular, lockable at various lengths, with the adjustment of these lengths being either in discrete increments or stepless. The rod element has a base length, at which it is not telescopically extended, and a maximum length if it is telescopically extendable. The maximum length can be a multiple of the base length. The connection between the distance measuring device and, in particular, the telescopic rod element can be detachable or permanent. That is, the preferably telescopic rod element can be provided as a separate component or be connected to or integrated into the distance measuring device as standard.The rod element is preferably positioned on the side of the rangefinder facing away from the GNSS receiver (rover). This eliminates the need to compensate for the distance between the rangefinder and the GNSS receiver (rover), i.e., the length of the rod element. This is necessary because otherwise, adjustments to the rod element's length would be required, especially with a telescopic rod element, necessitating repeated manual corrections. The telescopic rod element provides a stable and secure mounting point independent of the rangefinder and also allows for the reliable targeting of distant objects. The length of the (telescoping) rod element can be adjusted depending on the application.The diameter of the rod element preferably corresponds to the cross-section of the distance measuring device or is smaller than it, with good grip and durability by a user being preferred.

[0021] The rod element is designed in such a way, provided it is located at the end of the distance measuring device facing away from the GNSS receiver, that it can be penetrated by the distance measuring laser beam and / or the aiming laser beam, i.e., it has a cavity extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0022] Furthermore, according to one embodiment, a handle element can be provided that is connectable to either the distance measuring unit and / or the rod element. The handle element can be designed as part of the distance measuring unit and / or the rod element, or it can be detachably or permanently connected to them. For example, a handle element is conceivable that projects at an angle from the distance measuring unit and / or the rod element and whose dimensions are adapted to the hand of an operator, e.g., also by its shape and angle relative to the distance measuring unit and / or the rod element.

[0023] It is preferred if the housing is designed in such a way that batteries with sufficient operating time can be provided in the housing of the distance measuring device for the portable power supply of the distance measuring device directly connected to the GNSS receiver.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the distance-measuring laser beam is emitted longitudinally from the distance-measuring device and exits at the end section that does not include the connecting element. It is particularly preferred that the distance-measuring device be tubular or cylindrical, allowing for easy gripping, with the dimensions of the device being specifically designed to allow it to be grasped by hand. Furthermore, the distance-measuring laser beam exits centrally at the end section where the GNSS receiver cannot be attached. It is particularly preferred that the connecting element is arranged centrally on the underside of the GNSS receiver or rover.It is particularly preferred if the connecting element is also provided centrally on the distance measuring device and, in particular, is provided exactly opposite the exit opening for the distance measuring laser beam.

[0025] Preferably, the housing should be easy to handle. In particular, it may be designed to be between 20 and 50 cm long and have a diameter of 5 to 15 cm. A tubular housing is especially preferred. Furthermore, a weight of less than 5 kg, particularly less than 2 kg, and especially less than 1.5 kg, is preferred.

[0026] If the housing has a longitudinal axis, it may be particularly preferred if the distance measuring laser and / or the pointing laser emit in the axial direction of the housing.

[0027] Particularly preferred is the provision that the distance measuring device additionally includes a transmitting device and / or a data processing device for transmitting the distance measurement to a data receiving station. Further preferred, the distance measuring device may alternatively or additionally provide further data, for example, geodata, which enables the distance measurement data to be assigned to the coordinates.

[0028] The device is designed to emit a distance-measuring laser beam directed at a target to be measured. It also emits a further laser beam, likewise directed at the element or object to be measured and / or at an area immediately adjacent to it. This further laser beam is designed as a directional laser beam and emits in a different wavelength range than the distance-measuring laser beam.

[0029] The two laser beams, namely the distance measuring laser beam and the sighting laser beam, allow for particularly simple positioning and sighting of the point to be measured.

[0030] For the distance measuring laser, a laser can be selected that offers the greatest measurement precision. However, such lasers often have the disadvantage of being difficult for the human eye to see. By incorporating a second laser beam, namely the aiming beam, this is achieved. This beam is specifically designed for good visibility, allowing the user to align the measuring device with the point to be measured and then, even at a greater distance, clearly see whether the distance measuring laser beam is directed at the correct point. This positively influences the measurement accuracy.

[0031] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the distance-measuring laser beam can be emitted in the visible, red, and / or infrared wavelength range. It is particularly preferred that the distance-measuring laser beam is emitted in the range of 620 to 690 nm, particularly between 630 and 670 nm and especially between 640 and 655 nm. In principle, the red light range can also extend to or above 690 nm, particularly up to 780 nm. Furthermore, a wavelength greater than 780 nm, i.e., in the near-infrared or infrared range, is also conceivable.

[0032] According to a further preferred embodiment, the puncture laser beam can be emitted in the visible green wavelength range, since this wavelength range is particularly well detected by the human eye. It is particularly preferred that the puncture laser beam be emitted in the visible green wavelength range, especially in the range of 459 to 566 nm, and particularly preferably in the range of 520 to 540 nm.

[0033] Furthermore, it is particularly preferred if the wavelength ranges of the distance-measuring laser beam and the aiming laser beam differ by at least 30 nm, in particular at least 40 nm, and in particular at least 50 nm. It is especially preferred if the difference in wavelengths is such that the aiming laser beam is emitted in a different color than the distance-measuring laser beam.

[0034] While a distance-measuring laser emitting in the red and / or infrared visible range enables particularly accurate measurements, the red and / or infrared dot projected by the laser onto the object being measured is difficult or impossible for the human eye to detect, especially at greater distances. In contrast, a laser marking in the visible green wavelength range is easily perceived by the human eye.

[0035] It is particularly preferred that the two beams, the distance-measuring laser beam and the aiming laser beam, run parallel to each other, especially in close proximity, or intersect at the target to be measured (target point or target area), or approach each other at the target to be measured. In this way, it can be ensured that the aiming laser is also directed at the object or element to be measured, and thus the distance-measuring laser beam is also aligned with the target to be measured. In this way, an accurate measurement can be guaranteed.

[0036] Such a design is achieved in particular by using two different laser diodes to generate the distance measuring laser beam and the pointing laser beam.

[0037] Alternatively, a design is conceivable in which both laser beams are generated by the same laser diode. In this case, the beams for the aiming laser and the distance-measuring laser are emitted intermittently or in a desired temporal sequence, each within the desired wavelength range. For example, it could be configured that the aiming laser beam is emitted as the standard configuration, and only when it is positioned is the system switched to the distance-measuring laser beam, which is then emitted by the same laser diode and the measurement is performed.

[0038] In principle, it is also conceivable to use a similar configuration with two independent laser diodes, one emitting the aiming laser beam and the other the distance-measuring laser beam. For example, the standard configuration could be to emit only the aiming laser beam, which is then triggered either by the user or automatically if the aiming laser beam remains stationary for a certain period of time, at which point a measurement laser beam is emitted, and the measurement is then performed.

[0039] Additionally, a camera can be integrated into the measuring device, particularly the distance measuring device. This allows for the precise documentation of the measurement location. Including a camera in the distance measuring device significantly simplifies the measurement process. Furthermore, the images can then be georeferenced and displayed accordingly.

[0040] Furthermore, according to one embodiment, the measuring device, in particular the distance measuring device, may also include a holder for a mobile phone or a tablet. The holder may be located, in particular, along the longitudinal extent of the housing, especially on the outer circumference of the housing, and, if the housing is tubular, on a lateral surface.Several mounting options are conceivable; in particular, the mounting can be detachable and may utilize, for example, a locking element or a clamping element. It is especially preferred if the mounting is relatively robust and can withstand shocks and movements of the measuring device without the connection between the tablet or mobile phone and the measuring device becoming loose. Conversely, it may be preferred if no additional elements need to be mounted on the tablet or mobile phone to connect it to the measuring device. Preferably, the mounting can be designed so that the mobile phone or tablet can be pivoted at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the distance measuring device to improve visibility and readability.

[0041] Furthermore, it may be possible to incorporate tilt detection into the measuring device, e.g., an internal spirit level that detects a tilt, which can then be taken into account and compensated for via a correction mechanism. This tilt detection can be implemented in the GNSS receiver (rover) or, alternatively or additionally, in the distance measuring device.

[0042] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to a drawing. The drawing shows Fig. 1 a first embodiment of the measuring device according to the invention Fig. 2 a further embodiment of the measuring device according to the invention Fig. 3 a,b the measuring device according to Fig. 1 with a telescopic rod element

[0043] This shows Fig. 1. A measuring device 10 comprising a distance measuring device 12 and a GNSS receiver 14, also called a "rover". The rover 14 has a connection device on its underside, by means of which it can be connected, for example, in a conventional manner to a rover or surveying rod. This connection device is preferably a screw connection. The connection device 15 of the rover 14 is preferably arranged centrally. If the rover 14 is not rotationally symmetrical, the arrangement with respect to the connection device 15 is preferably such that it coincides with a center of gravity.

[0044] The distance measuring device 12 carries a corresponding connecting element 17, by means of which the distance measuring device 12 can be detachably connected to the rover 14.

[0045] The distance measuring device 12 has a housing 16, which is elongated and, in particular, tubular. The dimensions of the housing 16 are such that it can be easily grasped and held by a person. For this purpose, the housing 16 may be designed to taper in a section 19 to facilitate gripping and thus form a handle. The housing 16 has a longitudinal extension and two longitudinally spaced end regions 20, 21. At the end region 20 opposite the connecting element 17, exit openings (not shown) are provided for a distance measuring laser beam 26 and a bearing measuring laser beam 28, wherein the distance measuring laser beam 26 emits in the visible red and / or infrared range, and the bearing laser beam 28 emits in green.The different wavelength ranges in which the laser beams are emitted ensure that the optimal wavelength range is selected for each function. For example, a measuring laser beam 26 in the infrared wavelength range enables particularly precise measurements, whereas the green color of the pegged laser beam 28 is easily visible. Thus, the pegged laser beam 28 can be directed at a target element by an operator holding the housing 18 of the distance measuring device 12, and the target element is sighted. The distance is then measured using the measuring laser beam 26. The small size of the combination of the distance measuring device 12 and the rover 14 also results in low weight, making it easy to handle and transport.

[0046] Furthermore, the elongated design of the housing 16 makes aiming particularly easy, as it has a rod-like appearance, while simultaneously eliminating the weight and length of a rover rod.

[0047] Furthermore, the housing 16 not only enables stable and easy aiming of the element to be measured, but also provides a holder 31 by means of which a mobile phone 30, or alternatively a tablet, can be attached to the distance measuring device 12. The holder 31 can be designed so that the mobile phone 30 can be pivoted relative to the longitudinal axis of the measuring device. The received data can then be viewed and saved directly on the mobile phone 30 or the tablet.

[0048] By emitting the distance measuring laser beam 26 and also the aiming laser beam 28, which run parallel to each other and are directed towards the same element in the longitudinal direction of the housing 16, measurement deviations that occur due to the inclination and offset of the measuring beam 26 relative to the rover 14 are avoided from having an influence on the measurement.

[0049] Fig. Figure 2 shows an alternative design in which the housing in the end region 21 is formed without an additional taper 19 that facilitates gripping. Instead, a handle element 33 is provided, which improves handling.

[0050] Fig.Figure 3 shows the measuring device 10 in illustrations a) and b), where a telescopic rod element 35 is provided between the distance measuring device 12 and the GNSS receiver 14. The telescopic rod element 35 is shown in the retracted position in illustration a) and in the extended position in illustration b). This facilitates the aiming at a measuring point or element to be recorded.

[0051] In the manner described above, a particularly simple, cost-effective and easy-to-use measuring device can be provided which provides the functions of both a rover 14 and a laser distance measuring device 12. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 3 182 066 A1

[0009]

Claims

[1] Measuring device comprising a distance measuring device (12) emitting a distance measuring laser beam (26) directed from the distance measuring device (12) towards a target to be measured, wherein the distance measuring device (12) comprises a housing (16) in which a light source and a laser receiver for the distance measuring laser beam (26) are provided, and wherein the housing (16) has a longitudinal direction and two longitudinally spaced end regions (20, 21), wherein a connecting element (15) is provided at one end region (21), characterized by, that the measuring device (10) comprises a GNSS receiver (14) having a top and a bottom, the bottom being formed with a connecting device (15) for a rover or surveying rod, and the GNSS receiver (14) being detachably connectable via the connecting device (15) to the connecting element (17) of the distance measuring device (12), and the distance measuring device (12) emitting at the end region (20) of the housing (16) opposite the connecting element (15) in the longitudinal direction the distance measuring beam (26) and additionally a pegged laser beam (28), which is also directed at the target to be measured and / or at an area immediately adjacent thereto, wherein the pegged laser beam (28) emits in a different wavelength range than the distance measuring laser beam (26). [2] Measuring device according to claim 1, characterized by, that the measuring laser beam (26) and in particular the peilla laser beam (28) is emitted in the longitudinal direction of the distance measuring device (12) and exits at the end region which does not have the connecting element. [3] Measuring device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the connecting device (15) is arranged centrally on the underside of the GNSS receiver (14). [4] Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the distance measuring laser beam (26) is emitted in the visible, red and / or infrared wavelength range. [5] Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the pilla laser beam (28) is emitted in the visible green wavelength range. [6] Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the two beams (26,28), distance measuring laser beam (26) and pointing laser beam (28), run parallel to each other or intersect in the target to be measured or approach each other in the target to be measured or both are emitted intermittently or at different times in the same axis. [7] Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the casing (16) is tubular. [8] Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a telescopic rod element (35) is provided which can be connected to the distance measuring device (12) in particular at the end region (20) of the distance measuring device (12) facing away from the GNSS receiver (14). [9] Measuring device according to claim 8, characterized by , that the telescopic rod element is designed in such a way that it can be penetrated by the distance measuring laser beam (26) and / or the peilaser beam (28). [10] Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the distance measuring device (12) comprises a transmitting device and / or a data processing device for transmitting the distance measurement to a data receiving station. [11] Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the measuring device (10), in particular the distance measuring device (12), includes a camera or is connectable to a camera which is directed in the direction of the distance measuring laser beam (26). [12] Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the measuring device (10), in particular the distance measuring device (12), includes a holder for a mobile phone and / or a tablet. [13] Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the measuring device (1) has a grip area (19) or a grip element (33). [14] Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a tilt detection system is in place.

Images