Integrated GNSS and Camera for Obstruction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current GNSS receivers face challenges in accurately determining position and signal quality due to obstructions in the field of view, which can degrade signal reception and precision.
Innovation Solution
An integrated field-portable device that captures images and embeds expected GNSS satellite position data, allowing users to identify obstructions and select usable satellite signals for improved positioning, using a combination of image capture, position determination, and annotation systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GNSS receivers are used to collect position data, then position information can be obtained, but signal reception quality deteriorates due to obstructions in the field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification of obstructions in the GNSS receiver's field of view by capturing images and analyzing them before position data collection. This allows users to detect potential signal blockages in advance and adjust the receiver's position or orientation to optimize signal reception quality before critical measurements are taken.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback through captured images showing the actual field of view of the GNSS receiver, including any obstructions. This feedback loop enables users to see what the receiver is 'seeing' and make informed decisions about positioning, thereby improving both signal reception quality and subsequent position determination accuracy.
2Reliability
If the field of view is monitored for obstructions, then signal reception quality improves, but device complexity increases due to additional imaging and processing components
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the GNSS receiver functionality with an image capture device into an integrated unit. The image capture device shares the same field of view as the GNSS receiver, allowing a single optical path to serve dual purposes: navigation signal reception and obstruction detection. This integration reduces overall device complexity compared to separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The image capture device serves multiple functions: it captures images for obstruction detection, provides visual feedback about the field of view, and can potentially be used for documentation purposes. This multi-functionality justifies the addition of imaging components while delivering multiple benefits that improve signal reception reliability.
3Measurement precision
If images are captured and analyzed to identify obstructions, then positioning accuracy improves, but time consumption increases due to image processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs partial image analysis by focusing only on identifying obstructions in the field of view rather than comprehensive image processing. The analysis is tailored specifically to detect objects that would block GNSS signals, performing only the necessary level of processing to achieve obstruction identification without unnecessary computational overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
Image capture and obstruction identification are performed as preliminary steps before position data collection. This preliminary action allows users to quickly assess whether the current position is suitable for accurate measurements, preventing time loss from attempting measurements in locations with poor signal visibility.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated field-portable device comprising an image capture device configured to capture an image of a survey target area and a position determination system for determining a position of the integrated field-portable device, and an annotation system configured to access the image and associate the image with the position of at least one target in the survey target area and to associate with the image an instance of additional data comprising an identifier of the survey target area. The integrated field-portable device further comprises a storage system configured to generate a digital representation when the image is captured comprising the image, the position of the at least one target and the instance of additional data.