Handheld Laser Positioning via Reflective Reference Spheres
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing geodetic systems face challenges in accurately determining the position and orientation of hand-held measuring appliances, especially in obstructed environments like interior rooms, where satellite signals are limited, and require multiple reference points, leading to complex and costly setups with interruptions in continuous measurement capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using a network of detectable reference points, such as reflective spheres, with a positioning device that emits and detects laser radiation to determine spatial position and orientation, allowing for continuous measurement and correction of positioning systems, even in complex terrain, by scanning multiple spatial segments and using image processing to identify reference points and derive position information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If global positioning systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo) are used for position determination, then position can be determined over large areas, but signal reception is obstructed by obstacles such as buildings, making the system unusable in interior rooms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of artificial reference points (reflective spheres with known positions) and a laser-based measuring appliance that operates independently of satellite signals. This intermediary system mediates between the user's need for position determination and the obstructed environment, providing reliable positioning through local reference points that can be detected even when satellite signals are blocked by buildings or terrain
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic satellite signal-based positioning system with a mechanical/optical laser ranging system. Instead of relying on radio frequency signals from satellites that can be blocked, the system uses laser beams to measure distances to artificial reference points, substituting a system that is insensitive to signal obstruction with one that uses direct optical measurement to predetermined reference locations
2Measurement precision
If theodolites or tacheometers with visual link are used for position determination, then position can be determined with good accuracy, but the method fails when the visual link is interrupted by growth or buildings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing multiple reference points with known positions throughout the surveying area before actual measurements begin. These reference points are predetermined and their coordinates are stored in the system. When the measuring appliance needs to determine its position, it can automatically search for and measure to any visible reference point, eliminating the need to establish visual links during the measurement process itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the surveying area into multiple zones covered by different reference points. Instead of requiring a single continuous visual link to a distant target, the system divides the workspace into sectors, each with its own reference points. The measuring appliance can switch between different reference points depending on which ones are currently visible, allowing continuous positioning even when the visual link to any single reference point is interrupted
3Reliability
If multiple reference points are used for position determination in obstructed environments, then position can be determined reliably, but the setup becomes complex and costly with interruptions in continuous measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring appliance performs self-service by automatically searching for, identifying, and measuring to reference points without requiring manual setup or intervention. The system autonomously determines its position by processing measurements to multiple reference points and calculating coordinates based on stored reference data. This automation eliminates the complexity of manual reference point establishment and allows continuous operation as the appliance can automatically switch between different reference points as they come into view
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of the reference points to simplify the system - using reflective spheres with high visibility and known positions that can be detected from various angles and distances. The reference points are designed with optimal reflectivity and positioning parameters that allow the measuring appliance to automatically acquire them. This parameter optimization reduces the complexity of setup while maintaining reliable position determination in obstructed environments
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 accurate and continuous determination of position and orientation with reduced reference points, simplifying measurements, increasing accuracy, and allowing for automatic identification and surveying, as well as background correction of positioning systems, thus improving usability and robustness in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
positioning device that emits and detects laser radiation
Implementation Method 2
such as reflective spheres, with a positioning device that emits and detects laser radiation
Data Source
AI summary
The aim of the invention is to determine the actual position and/or actual orientation of a measuring appliance (4b). To this end, at least two reference points (2b′) lying in a spatial segment (5′) scanned by a laser beam are detected and measured in terms of the distance thereinbetween and the inclination angle thereof. The actual position of the measuring appliance (4b) can be deduced from the known positions of said reference points (2b′) arranged in a detectable manner and the associated distances and inclination angle thereof. The detection, monitoring and measuring of the reference points is carried out by the measuring appliance (4b) in an automated manner, the measuring appliance (4b) and specifically embodied elements associated with the reference points (2b′) forming a local positioning and/or orientation measuring system. The inventive method and corresponding devices enable measurements to be carried out in a problem-free and automated manner, even in areas that cannot be accessed by other measuring systems.