Angular Positioner Reference Harmonization Using Inertial Sensors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for harmonizing the reference frame of an angular positioner with respect to the terrestrial frame are cumbersome, requiring expensive equipment and skilled personnel, making it difficult to quickly restore alignment after a breakdown, which disrupts testing processes.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing inertial information from devices like accelerometers and gyrometers to measure local gravity and earth rotation, allowing for the compensation of angular biases in elevation, slope, and heading, thereby aligning the angular positioner's frame with the terrestrial reference without the need for expensive equipment, and implementing this process through computer program instructions for efficient execution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If expensive and uncommon equipment such as a north finder, theodolite and precision electronic levels is used to harmonize the reference frame, then the harmonization accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement equipment (north finder, theodolite, precision levels) with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) that uses accelerometers and gyroscopes to achieve reference frame harmonization. The IMU measures inertial data including gravity vector and Earth rotation rate to compute orientation parameters, substituting mechanical systems with inertial sensing technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The method uses the inertial measurement unit already present on the mobile device under test to perform the harmonization process. The IMU serves dual purposes: it is both the test subject and the measurement instrument, eliminating the need for separate external alignment equipment and reducing overall system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If qualified personnel and specialized equipment are required for harmonization, then the harmonization accuracy is improved, but the loss of time for restoring alignment after failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-diagnosis and self-alignment using the IMU already mounted on the device. The automated process computes orientation parameters from inertial measurements and adjusts the reference frame without requiring external intervention from qualified personnel, enabling rapid restoration after failures.
Solution Approach 2:
The method implements a feedback loop where the IMU continuously measures inertial data, the system computes the current orientation relative to the desired reference frame, and adjustments are made based on the computed偏差. This closed-loop approach ensures accurate and rapid harmonization without manual intervention.
3Reliability
If traditional harmonization methods are used, then the reference frame alignment is achieved, but the productivity and test continuity are reduced due to equipment availability and personnel requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The automated harmonization system using the IMU enables the device to perform its own alignment operations, eliminating downtime associated with scheduling specialized personnel and equipment. This maintains test continuity and improves overall productivity while ensuring reliable reference frame alignment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables rapid, reliable, and cost-effective harmonization of the angular positioner's reference frame, improving test precision and reducing downtime by using existing onboard sensors, thus ensuring consistent and reliable results.
Implementation Method 1
data representative of a local gravitational intensity seen by the measuring device
Implementation Method 2
data representative of an Earth rotation speed
Implementation Method 3
The inertial information provided by the measurement device relates in particular to the angular velocity and/or acceleration of the vehicle it is mounted on
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The method involves obtaining data (E20) representing intensity measured by a local gravity measuring device and/or representing rotation speed of an Earth. An angular positioner is fixed during a period of obtaining the data representing intensity and/or rotation speed of the Earth by measuring (E10) inertial information on a period of operation. An angular bias affecting reference of the positioner is evaluated (E30) from the obtained data. The reference of the positioner is harmonized (E40) from terrestrial reference by compensating the evaluated angular bias. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a system for harmonizing an angular positioner reference in relation to an Earth-based reference frame (2) a computer program comprising a set of instructions for implementing a method for harmonizing an angular positioner reference in relation to an Earth-based reference frame (3) a recording medium comprising a set of instructions for implementing a method for harmonizing an angular positioner reference in relation to an Earth-based reference frame.