Interchangeable Survey Mark Mounting for Precise Reference Points

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for marking reference points with survey marks are cumbersome, time-consuming, and error-prone, especially when switching between different measurement methods, as multiple types of marks are required and exchanging them can be difficult.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising at least two anchor elements with reversible connection structures and optically detectable survey marks, allowing flexible attachment and easy exchange of survey marks relative to a reference point, enabling measurement with various methods without distance correction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of survey marks are kept on hand for different surveying methods, then a wide range of applications can be covered, but the system complexity and time required for marker exchange increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveapplicability to different surveying methodsVSAvoidnumber of different markers to maintain

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal mounting structure with a standardized interface that can accommodate multiple types of survey marks (laser scanner marks, total station marks, drone marks) through a single base element. This allows one mounting structure to serve multiple functions by simply changing the survey mark attachment, eliminating the need for multiple specialized mounting structures for different surveying methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system is divided into separate functional components: a permanent mounting structure (base element) and interchangeable survey marks. This segmentation allows the mounting structure to remain while only the survey mark portion needs to be changed between different surveying applications, reducing the complexity of maintaining multiple complete marker systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If survey marks are exchanged between different reference points, then different surveying methods can be applied, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility in surveying method selectionVSAvoidtime required for marker exchange

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting structure is pre-installed at all reference points before surveying begins. This preliminary action eliminates the need to install mounting structures during field work, allowing survey marks to be quickly attached and detached from pre-positioned bases without time-consuming installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables dynamic reconfiguration of survey marks on the fly by allowing quick attachment and detachment of different mark types from the permanent mounting structure. This dynamic capability allows surveyors to adapt to different surveying methods immediately without fixed installations, reducing exchange time and enabling flexible field operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If different types of survey marks are used for different surveying methods, then measurement requirements can be met, but the risk of accidental or intentional damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to meet various measurement requirementsVSAvoidvulnerability to damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The vulnerable survey mark portion is extracted as a separate, removable component from the permanent mounting structure. This allows the delicate survey marks to be easily removed and stored securely when not in use, protecting them from accidental damage or intentional vandalism while the robust mounting structure remains installed at reference points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple survey marks are permanently installed at reference points, then various surveying methods can be supported, but the cost and material usage increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport for multiple surveying methodsVSAvoidmaterial consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

A single permanent mounting structure serves as a universal base for multiple types of survey marks, allowing one physical installation to support various surveying methods through interchangeable marks. This eliminates the need to permanently install separate mounting structures for each surveying method, reducing material consumption and installation costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4375615A1System comprising at least two measuring marks and at least two anchor elements

Publication Date: 2024.05.29 ROTHBUCHER GEORG

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AI summary

A system for flexibly marking a reference point is provided. The system comprises at least two anchor elements (200), each with a first connection structure (202), and at least two survey markers (100), each with a second connection structure (102) and an optically detectable survey area. The respective first connection structure (202) and the respective second connection structure (102) are reversibly connectable. The system has a marking state in which one of the anchor elements (200) is connected to one of the survey markers (100). In the marking state, the center of the survey area of each survey marker (100) has a predetermined distance from the reference point.