Tool Positioning System Using Ranging Radios for Construction Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of positioning tools in construction sites is labor-intensive, error-prone, and costly due to the need for precise measurement and layout, which is often hindered by the limitations of GPS receivers in indoor or cluttered environments.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a stationary control and a position sensor with communication and display capabilities, utilizing ranging radios or RFID/retroreflective elements to determine the tool's position relative to fixed radios, allowing for quick and accurate positioning of tools at desired locations within a work space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional measurement and layout methods are used to position tools at construction sites, then positioning precision can be achieved, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement systems (tape measures, laser distance meters, manual layout tools) with an electromagnetic field-based positioning system. Ranging radios transmit electromagnetic signals to determine tool position automatically, eliminating the need for manual mechanical measurement and layout procedures while maintaining positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ranging radios as intermediary devices that mediate between the tool operator and the building structure. These radios automatically calculate positions based on electromagnetic signal transmission and reception, serving as intermediaries that eliminate direct human measurement activities and reduce layout process time.
2Measurement precision
If GPS receivers are used for positioning, then positioning can be achieved outdoors, but GPS reception is not available or reliable indoors or in cluttered environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal positioning system that functions across multiple environments (outdoors, indoors, cluttered areas) by using ranging radios that transmit electromagnetic signals. Unlike GPS which is limited to outdoor satellite reception, this system can operate anywhere within radio signal range, making it universally applicable to all construction environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes GPS satellite-based electromagnetic positioning with a local ranging radio system that creates its own electromagnetic field infrastructure. This replacement allows positioning to function independently of satellite reception, enabling reliable operation indoors and in cluttered environments where GPS fails.
3Measurement precision
If teams of workers perform manual measurement and layout, then positioning can be accomplished, but the cost and labor requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service positioning system where the ranging radio automatically determines tool position without requiring human measurement teams. The system self-calculates positions based on electromagnetic signal timing, eliminating the need for multiple workers to perform manual measurement and layout tasks while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical human labor system (teams of workers with measurement tools) with an automated electronic positioning system. This substitution dramatically improves productivity by eliminating manual measurement activities while maintaining or enhancing layout accuracy through automated electromagnetic signal processing.
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 system streamlines the tool positioning process by eliminating the need for extensive layout measurements, reducing labor and time, while ensuring precise placement of both power and non-power tools in construction environments where GPS is unreliable.
Implementation Method 1
Ranging radios, operating at ultra wideband (UWB) frequencies, provide very accurate measurement of distances between the radios, using time-of-flight analysis.
Implementation Method 2
When ranging is accomplished from multiple fixed position radios to a target radio, the relative, three-dimensional position of the target radio is accomplished through trilateration.
Implementation Method 3
The total station is positioned at a fixed, known location and directs a beam of laser light at a retroreflective target.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for assisting in the use by an operator of the operating element of a tool at desired locations at a worksite, includes a stationary control and a position sensor secured to the tool. The stationary control is located at the worksite, and has data stored therein specifying one or more desired locations for operation of the operating element of the tool at the worksite. A position sensor is mounted on the tool. The position sensor determines the position of the operating element of the tool. The position sensor includes a communication device for communicating with said stationary control, a sensor for determining its relative position with respect to said stationary control, and a display for providing indications to the user of the tool of the desired location for the operating element of the tool and of the actual location of the operating element of the tool.