GNSS Antenna Arm Position Sensing Using Base Magnetometers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for detecting the positions of GNSS antennas in antenna alignment devices are cumbersome, prone to wear and tear, and require extra equipment, making them less than optimal for precise alignment.
Innovation Solution
The use of magnetometers mounted on moveable arms to detect the positions of embedded metallic objects, allowing for accurate determination of the positions and relative orientations of GNSS antennas, which are then used by a processor to calculate the alignment parameters of an external antenna.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical methods are used to detect GNSS antenna positions, then position detection can be achieved, but the system becomes cumbersome and requires extra equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical detection systems with magnetometers (magnetic field sensors) to detect the position of metallic objects attached to moveable arms. This substitution eliminates the need for complex optical equipment including light sources, optical sensors, and associated mechanical components, while achieving accurate position detection through magnetic field measurements.
2Measurement precision
If mechanical sensors are used to detect arm positions, then position detection is possible, but the sensors are prone to wear and tear and corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact sensors with magnetometers that detect position through magnetic fields without physical contact. The magnetometers detect the position of metallic objects on the moveable arms through non-contact magnetic field measurements, eliminating wear and corrosion issues associated with mechanical contact sensors while maintaining position detection accuracy.
3Productivity
If conventional position detection methods are used, then basic functionality is maintained, but alignment precision is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses magnetometers to precisely track the positions of GNSS antennas on moveable arms, enabling accurate calculation of baseline vectors and azimuth angles. This magnetic detection system provides superior position measurement precision compared to conventional methods, directly improving alignment accuracy while maintaining operational efficiency.
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 solution provides a more reliable and efficient method for determining the positions and orientations of GNSS antennas, enabling precise alignment of external antennas with reduced equipment requirements and minimizing the risk of mechanical failure.
Implementation Method 1
Multiple magnetometers may be provided at the base of each of the moveable arms. The magnetometers may detect positions of embedded metallic objects at the bases of the corresponding moveable arms
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna alignment device may include multiple GNSS antennas, locations and or relative orientations of which may be detected using magnetometers. The GNSS antennas may be mounted on moveable arms (e.g., at far ends of the moveable arms). Multiple magnetometers may be provided at the base of each of the moveable arms. The magnetometers may detect positions of embedded metallic objects at the bases of the corresponding moveable arms thereby determining a position of the moveable arms and the GNSS antennas mounted thereon. A processor may use the detected positions of the GNSS antennas for calculating, among other things, the azimuth of an external antenna to which the antenna alignment device is attached.