Handheld GIS Device Target Augmentation via AR Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current GIS data collection devices face accuracy issues due to compass heading errors, especially when measuring distant targets, and users struggle to intuitively understand what they are measuring, leading to potential mistakes and reduced data value.
Innovation Solution
The integration of augmented reality markers and accuracy indicators on the device's display to clearly show the measured target and measurement accuracy, using GPS/GNSS, laser rangefinder, and orientation sensors to provide intuitive feedback and confidence in measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If laser rangefinder is used to measure distant targets, then measurement range is extended, but measurement precision deteriorates due to increasing compass heading error effect
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback to the user by displaying the calculated position of the measured target on the screen, allowing the user to verify whether the measurement is accurate and adjust their aiming accordingly. This feedback mechanism helps compensate for the reduced precision at distant ranges by enabling immediate correction of measurement errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary display interface that visualizes the relationship between the device, the target, and the measured position. By showing graphical representations of the measurement geometry and calculated positions, this intermediary helps users understand and compensate for compass heading errors without requiring complex calculations or adjustments.
2Device complexity
If conventional GIS device is used, then device complexity is reduced, but user understanding of measurements becomes unclear leading to potential mistakes
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a visual copy or representation of the measurement geometry on the display screen, showing where the laser rangefinder is pointing, where the target is located, and what the calculated position should be. This graphical copy helps users intuitively understand the measurement process without adding physical complexity to the device itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a visual dimension to the measurement process by displaying graphical representations of the measurement geometry in two or three dimensions on the screen. This dimensional visualization helps users comprehend the spatial relationship between the device, target, and measured position, making the measurement process more transparent and easier to understand.
3Measurement precision
If workers remain in open area to avoid tree canopy interference, then GPS accuracy is improved, but time to reach all targets increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations and displays the expected position of targets based on the current device location and orientation. By showing users where targets should appear on the display before they physically reach them, the system enables faster target identification and measurement without requiring workers to move to every possible location to verify GPS accuracy.
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
Enhances user confidence in measurements, reduces redundant data collection, and improves overall accuracy by visually indicating the target and accuracy, thereby increasing the reliability of GIS data.
Implementation Method 1
a laser rangefinder
Implementation Method 2
laser rangefinder and pitch and roll measurements provide the location of a target object with respect to the GIS device
Implementation Method 3
A geographic information services (GIS) data collection device includes a global positioning system and/or global navigational satellite system (GPS/GNSS) receiver
Implementation Method 4
a digital compass
Implementation Method 5
pitch and roll sensors
Data Source
AI summary
Target augmentation makes GIS data collection devices more intuitive and useful for GIS workers, and reduces GIS data collection errors.