Rotary encoder with tactile function on a surveying instrument

Abstract

A surveying apparatus comprising at least one rotary encoder, wherein the rotary encoder is used to adjust a focus of a lens position or an alignment of an optical system to a target point, in particular a fine adjustment, wherein the rotary encoder, in addition to a rotation function, includes at least one selection function which allows device settings or device functions to be selected.

Description

Rotary encoder with push-button function on a surveying instrument Field of invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the operation of surveying instruments. Background of the invention

[0002] With various surveying instruments, such as motorized total stations or levels, a user interacts with the instrument to aim and initiate measurements. These interactions include pressing buttons, turning rotary encoders, and entering data on touchscreens. This interaction can result in force being exerted on the measuring instrument by the user, causing deflections or shifts in its position, which can affect measurement accuracy.

[0003] Targeting a target using a rotary encoder that sends a position signal to a motor control is used in various surveying instruments available on the market and is described, for example, in EP0802395B1.

[0004] Rotary encoders with function keys are state of the art in various other application areas of daily life.

[0005] Previous solutions with a separate rotary encoder and push-button function require installation space for both the encoder and the input buttons. To activate the push-button function, the user has to leave the encoder area and search for the button.

[0006] Surveying instruments are typically set up on tripods above a known point; the ground can be of any type (from soft to hard). Even the slightest changes in orientation have undesirable effects on the measurement result.

[0007] To aim at a target, the user looks through an optical sight and moves the sight's axis toward the target using a rotary encoder. Once the target is in focus, the user moves their hand from the encoder to the measurement button to trigger a measurement of the target coordinates. The user has two options for initiating the measurement. They can look away from the sight and focus on the input buttons to locate and press the measurement button. If the user moves their head away from the sight, they will glance through it after the measurement to verify the target alignment. If the target deviation is too great, the measurement must be repeated. The follow-up check and New measurements take time and ultimately represent costs or increased effort for the user.

[0008] Alternatively, this can be done blindly, with the user continuing to look at the target through the scope. If the trigger button is searched for blindly, there is a risk that the surveying instrument will move while searching for the button, requiring the user to re-aim, which also wastes time.

[0009] To enable one-handed operation, surveying instruments with three rotary encoders for motorized focusing, motorized horizontal adjustment, and motorized vertical adjustment on the side surface exist, such as the Leica Multistation MS60. This arrangement requires additional installation space compared to a total station with two rotary encoders.

[0010] The known measuring instruments are, by design, very large and very complex to operate.

[0011] A conventional measuring device with a separate arrangement of rotary encoder and input buttons requires installation space on the side of the instrument. This space results in a larger instrument, which generally also means a higher weight. A smaller instrument size results in a less ergonomic arrangement of the operating elements.

[0012] In daily use, the separate arrangement of rotary encoder and input buttons has the disadvantage that the user has to move their hand from the rotary encoder to the input button in order to reach the input button after a rotational movement on the rotary encoder.

[0013] A conventional rotary encoder arrangement with encoders for adjusting the aiming axis on both sides of the instrument necessitates two-handed operation for aiming. One-handed operation is not possible, especially if an additional rotary encoder is required for motorized telescope focusing. Object of the invention

[0014] To simplify the use of the measuring device, the object of the invention is therefore to reduce the size, to reduce input-related errors, or to simplify user input, e.g., by means of one-handed operation.

[0015] These tasks are solved by implementing the characterizing features of the independent claim. Features that further develop the invention in other or advantageous ways are found in the dependent claims. Brief description of the invention

[0016] The present invention relates to a surveying device comprising at least one rotary encoder, wherein the rotary encoder is used to focus a lens position or align an optic to a target point, in particular to perform fine adjustments. In addition to a rotation function, the rotary encoder includes at least one selection function, which enables the selection of device settings or device functions.

[0017] As used herein, the term "rotational function" refers to the function of a rotational motion.

[0018] For example, for one-handed operation, the rotary encoder and electromechanical contact switch used in the state of the art can be replaced by an integrated solution.

[0019] Alternatively, an encoder with two rotary functions with / without push-button function can be used.

[0020] Ergonomics are improved by integrating the button function into the rotary encoder. This allows the user to aim at a target point and activate a button function (e.g., measurement, autofocus) without losing sight of the target point.

[0021] To enable one-handed operation by the user, a rotary encoder can be combined with another coaxial rotary encoder.

[0022] As previously described, integrating the touch function into the rotary encoder solves various problems and enables the implementation of new functions. This saves installation space, allowing the surveying instrument to be built smaller and lighter. Furthermore, functionality is improved because the user's hand is already near the trigger button when the instrument is aligned with a target using the rotary encoder. An input button for triggering a measurement or for automatic telescope focusing can be pressed directly without searching. This increases measurement reliability because the user can keep their target constantly in view.

[0023] Additionally, the rotary encoder with touch function and coaxial second rotary encoder allows the user to aim at the target in the horizontal and vertical directions with one hand.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the measuring device can have a housing. The selection function on the rotary encoder can be activated by a spatial deflection of the rotary encoder relative to the housing from a neutral position to a selection position.

[0025] According to one embodiment, in addition to the function of a rotational movement, a rotary encoder can have a push-button switch and / or a pull-button switch for a one-dimensional deflection.

[0026] According to one embodiment, in addition to the function of a rotational movement, the rotary encoder can have a switch with a multidimensional, in particular six-dimensional, motion function for a multidimensional deflection.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the selection function can be formed by means of at least one touch-sensitive area of ​​a surface of the rotary encoder, wherein the touching of the area triggers the selection function.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the touch-sensitive area can be at least part of the head surface or part of the side surface of the rotary encoder.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the selection function can only be active if at least two touch-sensitive areas are touched simultaneously.

[0030] The touch-sensitive areas can be, for example, touch-sensitive areas on the head surface and the side surface.

[0031] According to one embodiment, a selection can be confirmed by feedback on the measuring device or the rotary encoder, in particular in the form of haptic, visual or acoustic feedback.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the feedback can be switched on and off.

[0033] According to one embodiment, a rotational movement of the rotary encoder can be measured by an angle sensor, in particular by a capacitive, optical or magnetic angle sensor.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the rotational movement can be a stepped or griddled rotational movement, whereby the change from one selection stage to the next may require increased force and thus haptic feedback can occur. Brief description of the drawings

[0035] The surveying device according to the invention will subsequently be described in detail only as an example, with reference to specific exemplary embodiments which are schematically depicted in the drawings, and further advantages of the invention will also be discussed. The figures in detail:

[0036] Figure 1 shows a surveying instrument according to the state of the art.

[0037] Figure 2 shows a surveying instrument with an input system which the features improvements according to the invention.

[0038] Figure 3 shows a surveying instrument according to the state of the art

[0039] Figure 4 shows a surveying instrument with a combined pressure- Rotary encoder.

[0040] Figure 5 shows a surveying instrument with combined pressure- Rotary encoders on multiple sides of the housing.

[0041] Figure 6 shows a surveying instrument with a double pressure rotary encoder and several pressure rotary encoders.

[0042] Figure 7 shows a surveying instrument with a sensor consisting of a magnetic field detector.

[0043] Figure 8 shows a surveying instrument with a sensor consisting of a magnetic field detector.

[0044] Figure 9 shows a surveying instrument with a capacitive angle sensor / distance sensor.

[0045] Figure 10 shows a surveying device with an optical rotary encoder and a light barrier.

[0046] Figure 11 shows a surveying device with an optical rotary encoder and a light barrier.

[0047] Figure 12 shows a surveying instrument with a radially arranged magnetic sensor.

[0048] Figure 13 shows a surveying instrument with a radially arranged capacitive sensor in the pressed state.

[0049] Figure 14 shows a surveying instrument with a rotary encoder as an optical angle encoder with beam blocking for key detection. Detailed description of the drawings

[0050] Figure 1 shows the basic structure of a modern surveying instrument 1 with telescopic sight 2, rotary encoder 11, 12 and input keys 13, 14 which requires classic two-handed operation.

[0051] Figure 2 shows the basic structure of a surveying instrument (1) according to the invention in a side view. Input buttons 23, 24 are integrated into rotary encoders 21, 22. In other words, Figure 2 illustrates the integration of a button function 23, 24 into the rotary encoder 21, 22 of a surveying instrument. The integration of the buttons into the rotary encoder makes it possible to build the surveying instrument smaller.

[0052] Figure 3 shows the basic structure of a modern surveying instrument 1 with telescopic sight 2, rotary encoders 11, 12, 16 and input keys 13, 14.

[0053] Figure 4 shows the basic structure of a surveying device 1 according to the invention in a side view. Input keys 23, 24 are integrated into rotary encoders 21, 22. A further rotary encoder 26 is arranged coaxially to the rotary encoder 21.

[0054] Figure 5 shows the basic structure of a modern surveying instrument 1 with telescopic sight 2, in front view. Rotary encoders 11, 12 and 17 are distributed on both sides of the instrument.

[0055] Figure 6 shows the basic structure of a surveying instrument 1 according to the invention, with a telescopic sight 2 and the possibility of one-handed operation. The figure also shows two rotary encoders 22, 27 with touch-sensitive functions 24, 28 and a double rotary encoder consisting of rotary encoders 21, 26, with touch-sensitive function 23. The touch-sensitive functions 23, 24, 28 can be omitted.

[0056] Various solution principles can be applied.

[0057] Figure 7 shows a sensor consisting of a magnetic field detector 31 for detecting the rotation angle and distance of a rotatably and longitudinally displaceable permanent magnet 30.

[0058] The permanent magnet can be designed as an axially magnetized disc magnet in any shape or as a ring magnet.

[0059] Figure 8 shows an embodiment with a magnetic field detector 31 for detecting the rotation angle of the ring magnet 30. The magnetic field detector 31 is arranged off-axis to create space for an electrical contact switch 32 for input detection.

[0060] Figure 9 shows a capacitive angle sensor-distance sensor 41 / 42 for detecting the angle of rotation and the distance.

[0061] Figure 10 shows the unpressed case. A light beam 54 is sent via an angle encoder code plate 52 to a receiver 51. The rotation angle of the axis of rotation is evaluated from the light information.

[0062] Figure 11 shows the pressed state. The axial displacement of the angle encoder code plate 52 directs the light beam 54 from the light source 50 into a light barrier 53. The absence of light on the receiver 51 is interpreted as a button being pressed.

[0063] Figures 12 and 13 show a solution variant with a radially arranged magnetic sensor. The angle of rotation is determined by the direction of the magnetic field of the magnet 60 from the sensor 61. Figure 12 shows the unpressed (unactuated) case for determining the angle of rotation.

[0064] Figure 13 shows the arrangement in the pressed state. The "button pressed" state is detected by the contact of the metallic, electrically conductive surface of the magnet 60 with the electrical contact surface 62. The rotor has a passive structure, whereas the stator has an electrically active structure to generate a capacitive field and detect changes.

[0065] Figure 14 shows a sensor consisting of a magnetic field detector 31 for detecting the rotation angle and distance of a rotatably and longitudinally displaceable permanent magnet 30. Input detection is carried out by contact surfaces 70 and 71.

[0066] The ring-shaped contact surfaces can be designed as electrical contact surfaces or capacitive distance sensors. The permanent magnet can be an axially magnetized disc magnet of any shape or a ring magnet.

[0067] The solution principles for the rotary encoder can also be applied to the second rotary encoder 26, which is arranged coaxially to the first rotary encoder 21.

[0068] Furthermore, temporal aspects can provide important input. The representation of temporal aspects is not possible; therefore, the following aspect cannot be represented. In addition, a surveying device with temporal aspects can be designed such that a device setting or function can be selected by rotating the rotary encoder, wherein a selection is confirmed by no further operation of the rotary encoder for a period of 1 to 10 seconds, in particular 2 to 6 seconds, preferably 3 to 5 seconds, wherein the selection is confirmed by a Feedback is confirmed, particularly in the form of haptic, visual, and acoustic feedback.

Claims

Claims 1. Surveying device (1) comprising at least one rotary encoder (22), wherein a focus of a lens position or an alignment of an optics to a target point, in particular a fine adjustment, is carried out by means of a rotary encoder (22), characterized in that the rotary encoder (22) includes, in addition to a rotation function, at least one selection function which enables the selection of device settings or device functions.

2. Surveying device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the surveying device (1) has a housing, and the selection function on the rotary encoder (22) is carried out by a spatial deflection of the rotary encoder (22) in relation to the housing from a neutral position to the selection position.

3. Surveying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotary encoder (22), in addition to the rotation function, has a switch (23) with push function and / or a switch (23) with pull function for a one-dimensional deflection.

4. Surveying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotary encoder (22) has, in addition to the rotation function for a multidimensional deflection, a switch (23) with a multidimensional, in particular six-dimensional, movement function.

5. Surveying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the selection function is formed by means of at least one touch-sensitive area of ​​a surface of the rotary encoder (22), wherein the touching of the area triggers the selection function.

6. Surveying device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the touch-sensitive area is at least a part of the head surface or a part of the side surface of the rotary encoder (22).

7. Surveying device (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the selection function is only active when at least two touch-sensitive areas are touched simultaneously.

8. Surveying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a selection is confirmed by feedback on the surveying device (1) or on the rotary encoder (22), in particular in the form of haptic, visual or acoustic feedback.

9. Surveying device (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the feedback can be switched on and off.

10. Surveying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a rotational movement of the rotary encoder (22) is measured by an angle sensor (41), in particular by a capacitive or optical or magnetic angle sensor (41).

11. Surveying device (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that the rotational movement is a stepped or griddled rotational movement, wherein the change from one selection stage to the next requires an increased effort and thus haptic feedback is created.

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