Retroreflector Sensor Arrangement for Drift-Free Inclination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing geodetic surveying systems face limitations in precision and accuracy due to inclination sensors' drift and complex structural configurations, particularly in determining the spatial orientation and position of target points, which affects the reliability and accuracy of position and orientation determination.
Innovation Solution
A reflector arrangement with a retroreflector and a sensor arrangement featuring a code element and sensor, where the code element and sensor are rigidly connected with a defined spacing, allowing for angle-dependent determination of the code pattern projection onto the detection surface, enhancing sensitivity and accuracy through Fraunhofer diffraction conditions, and incorporating additional sensors and an inertial measuring unit for comprehensive orientation and position determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If inclination sensors are used for position and orientation determination, then the system can determine spatial orientation, but the sensors drift over time reducing measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a retroreflector as an intermediary element that reflects the measurement beam back to the measuring system. This retroreflector-based measurement provides a stable reference that does not drift over time, serving as a mediator between the measuring system and the target point to eliminate sensor drift issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical inclination sensor system with an optical measurement system using a retroreflector and laser beam. This substitution eliminates the mechanical sensors that drift, replacing them with an optical system that provides stable, drift-free measurements by reflecting the beam back to its source.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and complex structural configurations are used to improve position and orientation determination, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retroreflector and the sensor arrangement into a single integrated target object. The retroreflector and sensors are rigidly connected with a known spatial relationship, merging the position reference and orientation reference into one unified component, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated target object serves multiple functions: the retroreflector provides position determination by reflecting the measurement beam, while the associated sensors simultaneously provide orientation determination. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate position and orientation measurement devices, reducing overall system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If the code element and sensor are rigidly connected with defined spacing to enhance sensitivity through Fraunhofer diffraction, then measurement accuracy improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs Fraunhofer diffraction conditions where the code pattern itself serves as the measurement reference. The diffraction pattern created by the code element provides self-referencing information that automatically compensates for small manufacturing variations in the spacing between the code element and sensor, reducing the stringency of manufacturing precision requirements.
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
The solution provides a structurally simpler and more accurate method for position and orientation determination with up to six degrees of freedom, improving the reliability and precision of target point positioning and orientation, especially in industrial and geodetic surveying applications.
Implementation Method 1
having a retroreflector for position determination for the reflector arrangement by way of parallel, in particular coaxial, beam reflection
Implementation Method 2
enhancing sensitivity and accuracy through Fraunhofer diffraction conditions
Data Source
AI summary
Reflector arrangement for position determination and/or marking of target points, in particular for industrial or geodetic surveying, having a retroreflector for position determination for the reflector arrangement using parallel, in particular coaxial, beam reflection, and a sensor arrangement. According to the invention, the sensor arrangement has a lens and a sensor which is sensitive with respect to at least one wavelength range, with a reception direction that is orthogonal to the detection surface thereof, wherein the lens and the sensor are rigidly connected such that it is possible using the sensor to determine a location, which is incidence-angle-dependent with respect to the reception direction, of an illumination cross section defined by the lens on the detection surface.