Survey Antenna Static State Detection for Non-Vertical Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surveying techniques face challenges in usability and productivity due to the need for precise vertical orientation of survey poles, which can be difficult in obstructed or uneven terrain, leading to potential positioning errors.
Innovation Solution
A survey system that uses a sensor to determine the static state of an antenna, allowing for positioning measurements to be taken regardless of the pole's orientation, increasing flexibility and reducing errors by eliminating the reliance on verticality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the survey pole is oriented vertically using a physical or electronic bubble, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the operation becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the vertical orientation requirement from the measurement process by using a sensor to detect the static state of the antenna independently of pole orientation. This separates the positioning function from the vertical alignment constraint, allowing measurements to be taken without strict vertical orientation while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses automated sensor detection to determine when the antenna is in a static state, eliminating the need for manual vertical alignment checks by the operator. The sensor automatically detects the static condition and triggers the measurement process, reducing operational complexity and time.
2Measurement precision
If the survey pole must be held vertically for each measurement, then positioning accuracy is improved, but productivity decreases due to the tedious repeated orientation process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous measurement by eliminating the repetitive vertical orientation step. The sensor continuously monitors the static state of the antenna, and measurements can be taken as soon as the static condition is detected, regardless of pole orientation. This creates a continuous workflow without interruptions for manual alignment, significantly improving productivity while maintaining accuracy through automated detection.
3Measurement precision
If the operator manually presses a button to store each survey point, then measurement precision is maintained, but time is lost due to the repeated manual operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic point registration by using the sensor to detect when the antenna is in a static state. Upon detecting the static condition, the system automatically stores the survey point without requiring manual button presses. This self-service automation maintains measurement precision through accurate static state detection while eliminating the time loss associated with repeated manual operations.
4Measurement precision
If the survey pole is set vertically using best survey practice, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the procedure becomes more difficult in obstructed or uneven terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the vertical orientation constraint from the measurement process by using a sensor to detect the static state of the antenna independently. This extraction allows measurements to be taken in difficult terrain conditions where vertical pole orientation would be challenging, while maintaining positioning accuracy through automated static state detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the detection parameter from vertical orientation angle to static state detection. Instead of measuring whether the pole is vertical, the sensor detects whether the antenna has reached a static position. This parameter change simplifies operation in difficult terrain while maintaining measurement precision.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a survey system comprising an antenna, a sensor, and a control unit. The antenna is configured for receiving one or more positioning signal, such as for example global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signals. The sensor is configured for determining whether the antenna is in a static state, and/or producing information based on which a determination as to whether the antenna is in a static state can be made. The control unit is configured for, if the antenna is determined to be in a static state, obtaining a positioning measurement based on the positioning signal(s). The invention also relates to a method for operating such a system, and to computer programs and computer program products for carrying out such a method.