Scanning Module Beam Deflection for Surveying Precision

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current surveying devices, such as total stations and laser trackers, face challenges in achieving high precision and speed when detecting multiple target points over large areas, as they require significant time and effort to capture detailed topographical data with sufficient geodetic accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A surveying system that integrates a scan module with a base device, featuring a sighting unit and a beam deflection element, allows for rapid and precise detection of multiple target points by rotating the beam deflection element to define a laser plane, enabling continuous scanning and high-precision angle and distance measurements, which are linked to generate point clouds.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a laser scanner is used to capture large surfaces quickly, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescanning speedVSAvoidgeodetic accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the scanning task into two distinct functional modules: a scan module for rapid data acquisition and a surveying device for high-precision measurement. The scan module captures large surfaces quickly using a rotating laser beam, while the surveying device provides precise angular and distance measurements. This segmentation allows each module to optimize for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between speed and precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the scan module with the surveying device into an integrated system. The scan module is coupled to the surveying device, allowing simultaneous operation of both rapid scanning and precise measurement functions. The control unit coordinates data from both modules, combining the high-speed surface capture capability with the geodetic accuracy of the surveying device, thus achieving both productivity and measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Measurement precision

If a total station is used to achieve high measurement precision, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeodetic accuracyVSAvoidscanning speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the measurement function into two specialized components: the surveying device (total station) handles precise angular and distance measurements, while the scan module handles rapid point-to-point scanning. This segmentation allows the total station to maintain its high precision without being bottlenecked by slow scanning, as the scan module performs the time-consuming surface coverage task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated system provides multi-functionality by combining the rapid scanning capability of the scan module with the high-precision measurement capability of the total station. The system can operate in different modes: rapid scanning for large surfaces, precise measurement for critical points, or a combination of both, making it universally applicable to various surveying tasks while overcoming the speed limitation of traditional total stations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the scan module is integrated with the surveying device, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional flexibilityVSAvoidsystem integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is designed as modular with distinct functional segments: the scan module, the surveying device, and the control unit. Each module is independently designed and can be coupled together in different configurations. The scan module can be attached to or separated from the surveying device, providing adaptability while managing complexity through clear module boundaries and standardized interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated system achieves universality by combining multiple functions in one platform: rapid scanning, precise measurement, and flexible data processing. The control unit can coordinate different operational modes and data sources, making the system adaptable to various surveying applications. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified control architecture that manages the complexity of coordinating multiple modules while providing a single interface for operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This configuration significantly reduces the time and effort required for large-area surface scanning while maintaining high precision, enabling faster and more efficient data collection with improved point-by-point detection capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a beam deflection element (11) that is motorized to rotate about a rotation axis for deflecting a scanning laser beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

emitting a laser beam, the laser beam traveling to a target point and reflecting back to a detector for distance measurement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLIDAR: LIDAR

Data Source

PatentEP2810019B2Measuring system with a measuring device and a scan module
Publication Date: 2019.12.25 HEXAGON TECH CENT GMBH
  • EP2810019B2 patent drawingFigure 1a~1d
  • EP2810019B2 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP2810019B2 patent drawingFigure 2c~2d

AI summary

The present invention relates to a measurement system 50 having a measuring device 20 and a scanning module 10 which has: a fastening means for fastening the scanning module 10 onto a holder; a beam deflection element 11 that is rotatable by a motor about an axis of rotation 12 to deflect a scanning laser beam 60, wherein the axis of rotation 12 is arranged at a defined angle relative to the pivoting axis 22; and a second angle measurement functionality 13 for determining an angle of rotation from an angle position of the beam deflection element 11. In addition, the measuring device 20 has a holder designed such that the scanning module 10 can be fastened by means of the fastening means in a module-like manner in a defined position on the measuring device 20.