Intelligent Tribrach Module for Precise Survey Instrument Stationing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surveying technologies require skilled personnel for precise stationing and centering of surveying devices over ground marks, which is challenging for inexperienced users due to complexity and potential for measurement errors, especially in achieving millimeter-level accuracy and angular precision.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent tribrach module with a measuring camera unit, inclination sensor, and communication unit that automatically determines the localization of a surveying device relative to a ground mark using image processing and inclination data, allowing for precise positioning and orientation without manual iterative adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual stationing methods are used with spirit levels and iterative adjustments, then measurement precision can be achieved, but the ease of operation deteriorates and requires considerable skill and dexterity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical spirit level system with an electronic inclination sensor that automatically measures tilt in multiple axes. The sensor data is processed by a control unit to calculate leveling status and provide guidance, eliminating the need for manual interpretation of bubble levels and reducing the skill required for accurate leveling.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-leveling by automatically calculating the required adjustments based on inclination sensor data and providing real-time feedback to the user. The module independently determines its leveling status and guides the adjustment process without requiring external reference tools or expert knowledge.
2Measurement precision
If traditional centering methods with optical plumb lines are used, then positioning accuracy improves, but the time required for setup increases due to iterative adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical plumb lines and manual centering procedures with an electronic system using inclination sensors and image processing. The module captures images of the ground marker, processes them to determine precise position, and provides automated feedback for centering adjustments, eliminating iterative manual alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning by capturing an image of the ground marker and calculating the required adjustments before final centering is achieved. This preliminary calculation based on image processing and sensor data guides the centering process, reducing the number of iterative adjustments needed.
3Measurement precision
If manual stationing procedures are used, then measurement precision can be maintained, but device complexity increases due to multiple adjustment components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (leveling measurement, centering measurement, image capture, and calculation) into a single integrated module. The inclination sensors, camera, and control unit work together as one system, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall device while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The module performs multiple functions simultaneously - it levels the instrument, centers over the ground marker, captures images for documentation, and calculates positioning data. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified system that uses the same sensors and processing unit for all tasks, reducing complexity compared to separate dedicated devices.
4Ease of operation
If automated positioning systems are implemented, then ease of operation improves, but measurement precision may deteriorate due to reliance on electronic sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors inclination sensor data and provides real-time feedback on leveling status and required adjustments. This closed-loop feedback ensures that the automated system maintains measurement precision by constantly comparing actual position with target position and guiding corrections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses high-precision inclination sensors that measure tilt angles with extreme accuracy, converting physical inclination into electrical signals for digital processing. This parameter transformation from mechanical tilt to electronic measurement enables automated operation while maintaining or improving precision through digital signal processing and calibration.
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
Simplifies and accelerates the stationing process, reduces errors, and enables non-surveyors to set up surveying devices accurately, improving measurement precision and usability across various surveying devices and environments.
Implementation Method 1
a measuring camera unit 25, 25a, whose field of view 10, in the mounted state, is directed towards a ground mark 4 located below the tripod 3, in particular through a central bore in a center screw 35 with which the module 1, 1b is attached to the tripod 3
Implementation Method 2
at least one inclination sensor 26, whose number of measuring axes is matched to the number of camera images 25i, 25bi required for the determination of the location
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a self-contained module (1) for locating a surveying instrument (2) mounted on a tripod (3) above a ground marker (4) in relation to the ground marker (4). The module (1) has at least a housing designed to be mounted between the tripod (3) and the surveying instrument (2), a measuring camera unit (25) arranged and designed such that, when the module (1) is mounted on a tripod (3), the ground marker (4) is visible in the field of view of the measuring camera unit (25), a power supply (22), an inclination sensor (26), and a communication unit (23).A positioning unit (27) of the module (1) is designed such that it uses image information of the ground marker (4) from the measuring camera unit (25) and inclination information from the inclination sensor (26) to calculate the positioning in relation to the ground marker (4) and provides this positioning to the surveying instrument (2) via the communication unit (23).