Automated Geodetic Target Tracking via Multi-Directional Laser Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current geodetic surveying systems face challenges in automatically and robustly finding and tracking moving target objects, especially in environments with obstructions or when satellite signals are obstructed, leading to inefficiencies and inaccuracies in determining target positions.
Innovation Solution
A surveying system with a control and evaluation unit that uses modulated laser radiation for target-finding, emitting radiation in a multi-directional fan, and a photosensitive line sensor to detect and track the target object's movement, adjusting the target axis to align with the target object's movement tendency, and employing a fine-sighting radiation cone for precise alignment and tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a telescopic sight with manual focusing or simple autofocus is used, then the device structure remains relatively simple, but the ability to automatically find and track moving target objects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the radiation source, radiation receiver, and control unit into an integrated surveying device system. The radiation source emits radiation in multiple directions, the receiver detects reflected radiation from the target, and the control unit processes signals to automatically adjust the telescopic sight alignment, merging detection and control functions into a unified automated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical focusing and target acquisition with an automated optical detection system. Instead of manual adjustment of the telescopic sight, the system uses radiation emission and detection combined with electronic control to automatically find and track moving targets, substituting mechanical operation with optoelectronic automation.
2Reliability
If satellite signals are used for target positioning, then global coverage is achieved, but the system fails in environments with obstructions such as tunnels or dense urban areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces radiation (laser) as an intermediary carrier for target detection and positioning. Instead of relying on satellite signals that are blocked by obstructions, the system uses emitted radiation that travels directly to the target and reflects back, providing a reliable detection mechanism that works in tunnels, dense urban areas, and other obstructed environments where satellite signals fail.
3Speed
If the telescopic sight is manually aligned with the target, then the operation is simple, but the speed and accuracy of target acquisition are insufficient for moving targets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where the radiation receiver continuously detects the position of reflected radiation from the target, and the control unit uses this information to automatically adjust the telescopic sight alignment. This closed-loop feedback enables rapid tracking of moving targets while maintaining operational simplicity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the telescopic sight alignment dynamic by enabling automatic adjustment based on detected target position. The system transitions from static manual alignment to dynamic automated alignment that continuously adapts to target movement, improving tracking speed and accuracy for moving objects.
4Measurement precision
If a narrow radiation beam is used for precise targeting, then measurement precision is improved, but the probability of detecting moving targets decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the radiation emission into multiple directional beams rather than using a single narrow beam. The radiation source emits radiation in multiple directions simultaneously, increasing the probability of intersecting with moving targets while the system maintains precision through selective detection and control of the telescopic sight alignment based on reflected radiation patterns.
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
Enables efficient and accurate automatic detection and tracking of moving target objects, even in challenging environments, by continuously adjusting the target axis to maintain alignment with the target object's movement, enhancing the robustness and speed of geodetic surveys.
Implementation Method 1
uses modulated laser radiation for target-finding, emitting radiation in a multi-directional fan
Implementation Method 2
a photosensitive line sensor to detect and track the target object's movement
Implementation Method 3
a retro-reflector (e.g. a 360° prism) which is mounted e.g. on a plumb staff and which retro-reflects laser radiation emitted by the total station
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a surveying system for surveying and tracking a mobile target object which defines a target point, wherein the surveying system has a control and evaluation unit, a surveying device with a sighting device which defines a target axis, and a target object. The control and evaluation unit is designed to track the moving target object within the scope of a target-finding functionality, wherein a first change in alignment of the target axis about a first axis occurs as a function of detected target-finding radiation in such a way that the target axis tracks the movement tendency of the target object.