Surveying Device Range Imaging Sensor Settable Target Illuminator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing total stations are slow in providing 3D point clouds due to precision requirements, leading to heavy and bulky constructions that hinder rapid scanning movements.
Innovation Solution
A surveying device with a base and a rotatable targeting component, equipped with a laser distance measuring module and a range imaging module, which uses different illumination states and precise angle information to generate high-precision 3D point clouds quickly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-precision angular sensors and mounting structures are used to ensure geodetic precision, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the device becomes heavy and bulky, hindering rapid scanning movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function into two distinct modules: a laser distance measuring module for high-precision single point measurements and a range imaging module for rapid area scanning. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently - the laser module maintains geodetic precision with stable mounting, while the range imaging module enables fast scanning without being constrained by the heavy precision mounting requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability by allowing the surveying device to switch between different measurement modes and configurations. The system can dynamically select between single point measurement mode (using laser distance measuring for high precision) and area scanning mode (using range imaging for speed), enabling the device to adapt its behavior to the specific measurement requirements rather than being constrained by a fixed heavy precision structure
2Measurement precision
If conventional laser scanning methods are used to provide 3D point clouds, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but the acquisition time is excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the 3D measurement task into two complementary approaches: single point laser measurement for high-precision reference points and area illumination range imaging for rapid bulk data acquisition. This segmentation allows the system to obtain 3D point clouds much faster than conventional laser scanning by using the range imaging module to capture multiple points simultaneously, while still maintaining accuracy through the complementary high-precision laser measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges two different measurement technologies - laser distance measuring and range imaging - into a single integrated surveying device. This combination allows the system to leverage the strengths of both methods: the laser module provides high-precision reference measurements while the range imaging module provides rapid area coverage, together producing accurate 3D point clouds much faster than either method could achieve alone
3Measurement precision
If the surveying device is relocated frequently to measure all relevant points, then complete coverage is achieved, but measurement efficiency decreases due to repeated setup and referencing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary action by using the range imaging module to quickly capture overview scans and identify measurement areas before conducting detailed laser measurements. This preliminary area scanning allows the system to plan measurement sequences more efficiently and reduces the need for frequent device relocation, as the broader field of view helps in positioning and orientation before detailed measurement begins
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 device achieves faster acquisition of 3D point clouds with improved handling, requiring less expertise and training, while maintaining geodetic precision and high measurement accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The electro-optic distance measurement is carried out by emitting the laser beam to provide for a pulse time-of-flight (TOF) measurement method
Implementation Method 2
a phase shift measurement method
Implementation Method 3
an interferometric method
Implementation Method 4
a target illuminator arranged at the targeting component and configured to emit radiation to provide an area illumination of a scene
Implementation Method 5
a range imaging sensor configured to provide a generation of a depth image using an area illumination of the target illuminator returning from the scene
Implementation Method 6
a second person carrying a stake-out device, e.g. comprising a retro-reflector
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 5~7
AI summary
The invention relates to a surveying device (1) embodied as total positioning system or total station, wherein the surveying device (1) comprises a laser distance measuring module configured to generate a distance measuring beam for a single point measurement to determine a distance to a measurement point targeted by the distance measuring beam. Furthermore, the surveying device (1) comprises a range imaging module with a switchable target illuminator (10) for providing different distance-dependent illumination states (12, 14, 15) of an area illumination comprising a broad and a narrow illumination state.