Handheld 3D Measurement With Prism, Distance Meter, and IMU
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional three-dimensional data measuring systems face inefficiencies due to the need for a pole and GNSS device, poor satellite-signal reception in indoor environments, and measurement accuracy issues related to satellite timing and geometry.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional data measuring system and method using a handheld module with a prism, electronic distance meter, inertial measurement unit, and control arithmetic unit to calculate position coordinates without a pole or GNSS device, and issue warnings for obstacle avoidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a pole with prism and GNSS receiver is used for measurement, then position coordinates can be acquired, but the measurement process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the complex pole-GNSS system and concentrates it in a handheld module. The handheld module integrates the prism, electronic distance meter, and inertial measurement unit into a single portable device, eliminating the need for a long pole and separate GNSS receiver, thus simplifying the measurement process while maintaining position coordinates acquisition capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple measurement functions into the handheld module. The prism for reflector-based measurement, electronic distance meter for direct distance measurement, and inertial measurement unit for posture detection are combined in one device, allowing the operator to perform all measurements with a single handheld unit rather than coordinating multiple separate devices
2Measurement precision
If GNSS receiver is used for outdoor measurement, then position coordinates can be acquired, but satellite-signal reception is poor in indoor environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal measurement system that works both indoors and outdoors by providing multiple measurement modes. The handheld module can operate in reflector-based mode (using prism and electronic distance meter) which works indoors without satellite signals, and in GNSS-based mode for outdoor measurements, making the system adaptable to different environments
3Ease of operation
If operator manually places prism horizontally while measuring, then measurement can be performed, but operator burden increases with longer working hours
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated functions. The electronic distance meter automatically measures distances without manual intervention, the inertial measurement unit automatically detects and compensates for module posture, and the system automatically calculates position coordinates. This eliminates the need for the operator to manually ensure horizontal placement and perform calculations, significantly reducing operator burden and measurement time
4Productivity
If operator needs to know pole length in advance and input it, then measurement can proceed, but this adds complexity and potential for error
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines the effective measurement length through the inertial measurement unit detecting the module's posture and position. The electronic distance meter measures the actual distance from the module, eliminating the need for the operator to input pole length manually. The system self-calibrates and uses real-time data, improving productivity while reducing complexity
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 three-dimensional data measurement indoors and outdoors by avoiding tracking interruptions and improving measurement accuracy through real-time obstacle detection and guidance.
Implementation Method 1
receive reflected distance-measuring light of the distance-measuring light reflected from an irradiated point
Implementation Method 2
detect a distance to the irradiated point
Implementation Method 3
a prism, attached to the housing, configured to retroreflect incident light
Implementation Method 4
an inertial measurement unit configured to detect posture information
Data Source
AI summary
The system that acquires three-dimensional data of a measurement range includes a measuring module including a housing having a grip portion, a prism, a notification unit, an electronic distance meter, and detect a distance to an irradiated point, an inertial measurement unit configured to detect posture information, and a control arithmetic unit configured to calculate position coordinates based on position coordinates of the prism and the posture information, and calculate position coordinates of the irradiated point; and a surveying instrument configured to measure a distance to and angle of the prism to acquire the position coordinates of the prism, in which the control arithmetic unit calculates an angle formed between a vector directed from the surveying instrument to the measuring module and a vector directed from the measuring module to the irradiated point, and cause the notification unit to issue a warning when the angle exceeds a threshold.