Automated Geodetic Positioning via Prism Pattern Recognition

Solution Overview

Problem

Current position determination methods for geodetic devices require manual and time-consuming point number assignment, leading to errors and limited automatability, especially in applications where trained surveying specialists are not available.

Innovation Solution

A simplified method that automates the position determination process by eliminating the need for point number identification, using a geodetic measuring device to survey visible measuring points and automatically detect prisms, measuring distances and angles, and correlating internal and external reference systems through pattern recognition and graph optimization techniques to assign reference points to datum points.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual point number assignment is used to determine position, then measurement precision can be maintained, but time consumption and error susceptibility increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition determination precisionVSAvoidtime for point number assignment

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically performs point identification and assignment by having the measuring device survey measuring points and automatically match them with datum points based on spatial patterns, eliminating the need for manual point number input by the user

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical process of point number assignment is replaced by an automated optical and computational system that uses pattern recognition and graph optimization algorithms to automatically identify and correlate measuring points with datum points

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If manual point number assignment is required, then reliable point identification is possible, but automatability and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepoint identification reliabilityVSAvoidease of position determination

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically performs point identification and assignment by having the measuring device survey measuring points and automatically match them with datum points based on spatial patterns, eliminating the need for manual point number input by the user

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback loops where the measuring device surveys points, the system automatically assigns them to datum points, and the position calculation is refined iteratively, with the ability to detect and correct assignment errors through consistency checks

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If trained surveying specialists operate the devices, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but adaptability to different user groups and applications decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidadaptability to different user groups

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically performs point identification and assignment by having the measuring device survey measuring points and automatically match them with datum points based on spatial patterns, eliminating the need for manual point number input by the user

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The automated system makes the device usable by various user groups including machine control operators who are not trained surveying specialists, while maintaining measurement accuracy through algorithmic point assignment and consistency verification

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8483512B2Position determination method for a geodetic measuring device

Publication Date: 2013.07.09 LEICA GEOSYSTEMS AG

AI summary

The invention relates to a position determination method for a geodetic device having a distance and angle measuring functionality, such as a total station (1), a determination being made of the relative location of the geodetic device and reference points (2) marked with reflectors (P1-Pn) of a quantity of reference points, by measuring the distance (D1-Dn) and at least one angle (φi-φn, θ1-θn) from the geodetic device to the reference points as reference variables, the reference variables being determined in a device-based reference system. For the reference point quantity formed by the reference points (P1-Pn) and a reference point quantity of measurable reference points (A-G), the positions of which are known in an external reference system, common elements are identified, the relative location of the reference points (P1-Pn) being derived from the reference variables and the common elements being identified and associated based on the relative location of the reference points (P1-Pn). The position (S) of the geodetic device in the external reference system is determined from the common elements and the positions thereof in an external reference system.