Surveying Device Calibration Automation via Integrated Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing surveying devices require complex and time-consuming advance preparation procedures, including installation, leveling, calibration of tilt sensors, and synchronization of time information, which lowers work efficiency, especially when the surveying device needs to be moved after calibration.
Innovation Solution
A surveying system with a survey controller that automates and streamlines the advance preparation process by performing first and second calibration processes, leveling, and obtaining GPS time, allowing for simultaneous execution of these steps while tracking a movable imaging device, thereby reducing the need for multiple application programs and minimizing the risk of recalibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate application programs are used for leveling, tilt sensor calibration, and GPS time synchronization, then each function can be performed with high precision, but the work becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate application programs (leveling, tilt sensor calibration, GPS time synchronization) into a single integrated application program. This integration allows all preparation steps to be performed through one unified interface, reducing operational complexity while maintaining the precision of each individual function.
Solution Approach 2:
The surveying device is designed with a universal control system that can perform multiple functions (leveling, calibration, time synchronization) through a single application program. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate programs and reduces the complexity of operating multiple independent systems.
2Ease of operation
If the surveying device is moved after tilt sensor calibration, then flexibility in repositioning is improved, but the calibration must be redone, reducing work efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs tilt sensor calibration at the initial installation position before any surveying work begins. This preliminary calibration establishes a reference that remains valid even when the device is later repositioned, eliminating the need to recalibrate after moving and thus maintaining both repositioning flexibility and work efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation mode based on whether the device has been moved. The control system can detect position changes and automatically determine whether recalibration is necessary, optimizing the workflow between maintaining calibration validity and allowing flexible repositioning.
3Measurement precision
If GPS time synchronization is performed for an extended period, then time synchronization precision is improved, but the surveying device must remain stationary, reducing operational flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs GPS time synchronization as a preliminary step during the initial setup phase before surveying work begins. By completing the time synchronization early when the device is stationary, the system achieves precise time alignment without requiring extended periods of immobility during actual surveying operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages the timing of GPS synchronization, performing it when conditions are optimal (device stationary during setup) and then maintaining time accuracy through automated updates. This self-managing approach balances the need for precision with operational flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
A surveying device 3 configured to perform a survey by tracking, as a survey target, a prism 13 attached to a camera 11 of a movable imaging device 2, includes an electronic distance meter 33 configured to measure a distance to the survey target; a horizontal angle detector 41 and a vertical angle detector 42 each configured to measure an angle; a main body 3a supporting these members; a time obtainer 47 configured to obtain a GPS time from a GPS satellite; a tilt sensor 48 configured to detect a posture of the main body 3a; a calibrator 49 configured to calibrate the tilt sensor 48; and a survey controller 40 that causes the calibrator 49 to perform calibration during a period in which the time obtainer 47 obtains the GPS time, as an advance preparation to be performed before the measurement.