Laser Scanner with GPS-Independent MEMS Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D laser scanning methods for complex objects require manual effort and precision in aligning multiple scans from different locations, especially in indoor environments where GPS signals are unreliable, leading to imprecise transformations and increased surveying effort.
Innovation Solution
A laser scanner equipped with a GPS-independent navigation unit using MEMS components like accelerometers, gyroscopes, and a barometer, along with optional GPS, compass, and other sensors for precise determination of scanner position and orientation, enabling automatic and precise recording of scans without manual pre-orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual target-based recording is used to ensure precise transformation of laser scans, then measurement precision is improved, but surveying effort and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The laser scanner automatically performs pre-orientation and transformation calculations using its own sensor data (GPS, inertial sensors, range data) without requiring manual target placement or expert intervention. The system self-calibrates by comparing scanned features with expected geometric relationships, enabling autonomous precise recording.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical target placement and optical total station measurements are replaced by an integrated electronic navigation system combining GPS receivers, inertial measurement units (accelerometers, gyroscopes), and automatic feature recognition algorithms to achieve precise scanner positioning and orientation.
2Ease of operation
If GPS systems are used for scanner position detection, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates in indoor environments
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple positioning methods: GPS satellite signals for outdoor positioning, inertial sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) for continuous position tracking, and range data from the laser scanner itself for indoor positioning. This combination allows seamless operation across different environments while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Inertial sensors act as intermediaries that bridge GPS outdoor positioning and indoor laser range-based positioning. The inertial measurement unit continuously tracks scanner movement and orientation, providing position estimates when GPS signals are unavailable, and smoothing transitions between different positioning modes.
3Device complexity
If coarse position estimation by navigation device is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from the laser scanner's range measurements to continuously refine and correct the position estimates provided by the navigation device. Scanned features are compared with expected geometric relationships, and transformation calculations are iteratively optimized to achieve precise scanner positioning beyond the navigation device's coarse accuracy.
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 fully automated, precise 3D surveying of complex objects with minimal manual interference, even in indoor environments, by accurately coupling scanner positions and orientations, improving surveying precision and reducing effort.
Implementation Method 1
The navigation unit has a GPS signal-independent navigation unit for determination of the scanner position and scanner orientation relative to a basic scanner position
Implementation Method 2
optional GPS, compass and other sensors for precise determination of scanner position and orientation
Data Source
AI summary
A laser scanner is designed to include a GPS signal-independent navigation unit.