| Trimble Navigation Limited Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120136475 | SYSTEM FOR POSITIONING A TOOL IN A WORK SPACE - 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. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120127455 | STATIONING AN UNLEVELED OPTICAL TOTAL STATION - A method of stationing an unleveled optical total station includes placing the unleveled optical total station at a first station. At the first station, positions of at least three non-collinear measurement points in an instrument coordinate system are determined using the unleveled optical total station. The method also includes obtaining positions of the at least three non-collinear measurement points in a local coordinate system. A transformation is computed between the instrument coordinate system and the local coordinate system using the positions of the at least three non-collinear measurement points in the instrument coordinate system and the positions of the at least three non-collinear measurement points in the local coordinate system. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120119944 | GNSS ATMOSPHERIC ESTIMATION WITH AMBIGUITY FIXING - Methods and apparatus are presented for estimating environmental parameters from GNSS signals in real time. Some embodiments estimate a float solution using a federated ionospheric filter. Some embodiments fix ambiguities for improved estimates. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120111248 | PLANTER ASSEMBLY WITH SELECTIVELY ACTUATED OUTPUT - An actuating system for a planting device. The actuating system has an electric motor that provides an actuating force for a seed shaft. A pneumatic acting member is connected to a source of compressed air through a valve and positioned to engage the electric motor to actuate the electric motor. The source of compressed air and electric motor can thus be connected to a controller that operates the source of compressed air and the electric motor in order to provide selective actuation to control planting of the planting device. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120105870 | LAYOUT METHOD - A method of directing a beam of laser light at a target point on a wall or other generally vertical surface defined by the intersection of a reference line with the wall or surface includes the steps of: a.) defining the reference line, b.) calculating the three dimensional location of a point on the line, c.) directing a beam of laser light from an automated total station toward said point on the line, d.) measuring the three dimensional location of the reference point on the vertical surface illuminated by said beam of laser light, e.) determining the point on the reference line closest to said reference point on the vertical surface, f.) redirecting the beam of laser light from the automated total station toward the point on the reference line closest to said reference point, and g.) repeating steps d.) through f.) until the point on the reference line closest to said reference point is less than a predetermined distance from said reference point. The point on the line in steps b.) and c.) may be the midpoint of the line. The reference line may be defined by specifying the end points of the line. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120101784 | Wide-area agricultural monitoring and prediction - Ground-based measurements of agricultural metrics such as NDVI are used to calibrate wide-area aerial measurements of the same metrics. Calibrated wide-area data may then be used as an input to a field prescription processor. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120092213 | GNSS ATMOSPHERIC ESTIMATION WITH FEDERATED IONOSPHERIC FILTER - Methods and apparatus are presented for estimating environmental parameters from GNSS signals in real time. Some embodiments estimate a float solution using a federated ionospheric filter. Some embodiments fix ambiguities for improved estimates. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120089304 | Tracking Carbon Output in Agricultural Applications - Novel tools and techniques to enhance and/or facilitate the collection, tracking, and/or verification of greenhouse gas emissions and/or savings, particularly (but not exclusively) in agricultural applications. Some tools, for example, can assist in the verification of carbon credits that may result from conservation tilling activities. Other embodiments can track greenhouse gas emissions that result from agricultural activities, including without limitation the application of pesticides, fertilizers, and/or other agricultural chemicals. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120026038 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus - Methods and apparatus are provided for processing a set of GNSS signal data derived from observations of GNSS signals of multiple transmitters over multiple epochs, the GNSS signals having a first signal and a second signal in a first band which can be tracked as a single wide-band signal and each of which can be tracked separately, comprising: obtaining carrier-phase observations of the first signal, obtaining carrier-phase observations of the second signal, obtaining code observations of the wide-band signal, and estimating from a set of observables comprising the carrier-phase observations of the first signal, the carrier-phase observations of the second signal and the code observations of the wide-band signal values for a set of parameters comprising: position of a receiver of the GNSS signals, clock error of a receiver of the GNSS signals, and an array of ambiguities comprising an ambiguity for each transmitter from which carrier-phase observations of the first signal are obtained and an ambiguity for each transmitter from which carrier-phase observations of the second signal are obtained. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120013736 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING ANGLES AND LOCATIONS OF POINTS - An apparatus for determining an azimuth of a target point is provided. The apparatus includes a support structure and an imaging device coupled to the support structure and configured to provide image data. The apparatus also includes a position measuring device coupled to the support structure and configured to determine position information and a processor in electrical communication with the imaging device and the position measuring device. The processor is configured to receive the image data from the imaging device, receive the position information from the position measuring device, determine a baseline between a first position and a second position, determine an orientation between overlapping images, and compute the azimuth of the target point relative to the baseline. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20110285587 | GNSS Surveying Methods and Apparatus - Methods and apparatus are presented for improved productivity in determining static position of an antenna of a GNSS rover, such as in stop-and-go surveying. Computer-implemented methods and apparatus provide for determining a static position of an antenna of a GNSS rover from observations of GNSS signals collected at the antenna over multiple epochs and from correction data for at least one of the epochs. In some forms this comprises: acquiring first-epoch rover observations of GNSS signals received at the antenna during a first epoch, obtaining first-epoch correction data for the first epoch, determining a synchronized rover antenna position for the first epoch from the first-epoch rover observations and the first-epoch correction data, acquiring subsequent-epoch rover observations from the received GNSS satellite signals for at least one subsequent epoch for which correction data is unavailable, determining that the antenna position remained static for at least two static epochs, and determining an updated rover antenna position from the synchronized rover antenna position and the subsequent-epoch rover observations of at least one static epoch of the at least one subsequent epoch. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110279314 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Ionospheric Filters - Methods and apparatus are provided for processing a set of GNSS signal data derived from signals of a first set of satellites having at least three carriers and signals of a second set of satellites having two carriers. A geometry filter uses a geometry filter combination to obtain an array of geometry-filter ambiguity estimates for the geometry filter combination and associated statistical information. Ionosphere filters use a two-frequency ionospheric combination to obtain an array of ionosphere-filter ambiguity estimates for the two-frequency ionospheric combinations and associated statistical information. Each two-frequency ionospheric combination comprises a geometry-free two-frequency ionospheric residual carrier-phase combination of observations of a first frequency and observations of a second frequency. Auxiliary ionosphere filters use an auxiliary ionospheric combination to obtain an array of auxiliary-ionosphere-filter ambiguity estimates for the auxiliary ionospheric combinations and associated statistical information. Each auxiliary ionospheric combination uses carrier-phase observations of a third frequency and carrier-phase observations of at least one of the first frequency and the second frequency. A combined array of ambiguity estimates is prepared for all carrier phase observations and associated statistical information by combining the arrays of the geometry filter and the ionosphere filters and the auxiliary ionosphere filters. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110278381 | Agricultural Spreader Control - A spreader control system digitally filters noisy load cell measurements and inaccurate flow rate measurements to form an optimal estimate of material weight in a spreader bin. This estimate may be combined with spreader swath width and vehicle speed to determine application rate. When actuators for parameters such as apron speed or gate size are available, spreading rates may be controlled with active feedback. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110267228 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Geometric Filter - Methods and apparatus are provided for processing a set of GNSS signal data derived from signals of a first set of satellites having at least three carriers and signals of a second set of satellites having two carriers. A geometry filter uses a geometry filter combination to obtain an array of geometry-filter ambiguity estimates for the geometry filter combination and associated statistical information. Ionosphere filters use a two-frequency ionospheric combination to obtain an array of ionosphere-filter ambiguity estimates for the two-frequency ionospheric combinations and associated statistical information. Each two-frequency ionospheric combination comprises a geometry-free two-frequency ionospheric residual carrier-phase combination of observations of a first frequency and observations of a second frequency. Auxiliary ionosphere filters use an auxiliary ionospheric combination to obtain an array of auxiliary-ionosphere-filter ambiguity estimates for the auxiliary ionospheric combinations and associated statistical information. Each auxiliary ionospheric combination uses carrier-phase observations of a third frequency and carrier-phase observations of at least one of the first frequency and the second frequency. A combined array of ambiguity estimates is prepared for all carrier phase observations and associated statistical information by combining the arrays of the geometry filter and the ionosphere filters and the auxiliary ionosphere filters. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110267226 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Ambiguity Convergence Indication - Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating parameters, i.e. ambiguities, derived from GNSS signals. Observations of a GNSS signal from each of a plurality of GNSS satellites are obtained ( | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110264405 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MEASURING ANGLES BASED ON 360 DEGREE IMAGES - A surveying apparatus includes a support structure and a reflective surface mechanically coupled to the support structure. The reflective surface is configured to receive panoramic data over a 360° field of view. The surveying apparatus also includes an optical system mechanically coupled to the support structure and optically coupled to the reflective surface. The surveying apparatus further includes an imaging system mechanically coupled to the support structure and optically coupled to the optical system and a processor. The processor is configured to receive data from the imaging system and compute an angular measurement based on the received data. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110260914 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus With Candidate Set Selection - Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating parameters, i.e. ambiguities, derived from GNSS signals. Observations of GNSS signals are obtained from each of a plurality of GNSS satellites ( | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110260539 | High Efficiency Backup-Power Circuits for Switch-Mode Power Supplies - Disclosed are novel interconnections of a coupling circuit and an energy storage device which enables the storage device to provide back-up power for a switching power supply without requiring the device to store or output high voltage, and which enables full utilization of the energy stored in the device. In exemplary embodiments, the combination of the coupling circuit and the energy storage device may be coupled between the input and output of the switching power supply (e.g., between the non-ground terminals of the input and output ports of the switching power supply). The coupling circuit is configured to couple power from the energy storage device to the input of the switching power supply when the input power source is not provided to the switching power supply, and optionally to couple power from the input power source to the energy storage device when the input power source is provided. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110184784 | Tracking Carbon Footprints - Novel solutions to the challenges of obtaining accurate information about a user's or an organization's carbon footprint. In some cases, these solutions can obtain and/provide feedback about a user's carbon output based on the user's habits and choices. Some solutions are designed to supply services to individuals as well as commercial ventures and for a variety of vehicle fleets, including without limitation construction equipment. In different aspects, systems in accordance with various embodiments enable a variety of types of users to create their own carbon emission generation profile based on vehicle type; track, estimate, and store their emissions in a database; analyze their results and performance, using established methods and metrics and/or automatically update all operating parameters of interest. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110157359 | VIRTUAL PERSPECTIVE CENTER ALIGNED WITH MEASUREMENT CENTER - An apparatus for acquiring image and location information includes an antenna comprising an element configured to receive signals for determining the location information, and an imaging device coupled to the antenna and configured to acquire the image information. A virtual perspective center of the imaging device is coincident with the element of the antenna. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110156949 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Tracking Interruption - Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating parameters, i.e. ambiguities, derived from GNSS signals. Observations of each of received frequencies of a GNSS signal from a plurality of GNSS satellites are obtained for a plurality of instances in time ( | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110153167 | EXCAVATOR CONTROL USING RANGING RADIOS - A system for use with an excavator of the type having a chassis, bucket support elements including a boom extending from the chassis and a dipper stick pivotally mounted on the end of the boom, and an excavator bucket pivotally mounted on the end of the dipper stick, determines the position of the excavator bucket during operation of the excavator at a worksite. The system includes a plurality of fixed ranging radios that are positioned at known locations at the worksite. A pair of ranging radios is mounted on the chassis of the excavator. A third ranging radio is mounted on one of the bucket support elements. A measurement circuit is responsive to the pair of ranging radios and to the third ranging radio, and determines the position and orientation of the excavator chassis, the bucket support elements, and the bucket with respect to the plurality of fixed ranging radios. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110148698 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Scaling of Quality Measure - Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating parameters, i.e. ambiguities, derived from GNSS signals. Observations of GNSS signals are obtained from each of a plurality of GNSS satellites ( | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110141488 | POSITIONING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DETECTING A LASER BEAM - The present invention relates to a positioning device and method for detecting light of fan shaped laser beam, as well as to a positioning system comprising the device and to a light emitting device emitting the fan shaped laser beam, which enable to find a spot of a laser beam easier and quicker. The positioning device comprises a detector for detecting light of a fan shaped laser beam rotating around a propagation axis with a direction of rotation and having two detector elements arranged in a known spatial relation for outputting a detection signal when irradiated; and a position determining unit to obtain a first set of detection signals from the detector elements, determine a first time relation between the detection signals of the first set, and determine a positional relation between the detector and the propagation axis based on the first time relation. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110140959 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Ambiguity Selection - Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating parameters, i.e. ambiguities, derived from GNSS signals. Observations of a GNSS signal from each of a plurality of GNSS satellites are obtained ( | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110120358 | PLANTER ASSEMBLY WITH SELECTIVELY ACTUATED OUTPUT - An actuating system for a planting device. The actuating system has an electric motor that provides an actuating force for a seed shaft. A pneumatic acting member is connected to a source of compressed air through a valve and positioned to engage the electric motor to actuate the electric motor. The source of compressed air and electric motor can thus be connected to a controller that operates the source of compressed air and the electric motor in order to provide selective actuation to control planting of the planting device. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110080477 | METHOD FOR INTELLIGENT SCANNING USING A TOTAL STATION - System and method for scanning an object using a surveying instrument is provided. The method includes designating an area associated with an object to be scanned. Defining one or more sections within the area associated with the object. Scanning a portion of the area associated with the object corresponding to a first section of the area associated with the object and designating one or more sections adjacent to the first section if scan results indicate presence of an object. Designating one or more sections adjacent to the first section for not scanning if the scan results of the portion of the area associated with the object corresponding to the first section do not indicate presence of an object. A remote control device is provided that can control the surveying instrument, receive the scan results, and analyze the scan results for subsequent use. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110068164 | Method and Apparatus for Barcode and Position Detection - Method and apparatus for detecting barcode data of at least one item of interest. In one embodiment, a method includes detecting a barcode target, by an imaging device, associated with an item located at a position of interest. The method further includes decoding the barcode target to extract data associated with the item, determining position data for the position of interest and displaying the data associated with the item and the position data for a user. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110066375 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING NAVIGATIONAL INFORMATION ASSOCIATED WITH LOCATIONS OF OBJECTS - An apparatus for providing navigational information associated with locations of objects includes an imaging device configured to acquire image data, a visual display coupled to the imaging device and configured to display the image data, a position measuring device configured to determine position information associated with the imaging device, and an orientation device configured to determine orientation information associated with the imaging device. The apparatus may also include a rendering system coupled to the visual display, the position measuring device, and the orientation device. The rendering system may be configured to determine image coordinates associated with a location of an object and provide a navigational graphic on the visual display oriented relative to the image coordinates. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110043373 | Reverse RFID location system - A reverse RFID location system is based on set of RFID tags in which each tag stores data representing its position. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110022267 | Agricultural Vehicle Autopilot Rollover Risk Assessment System - A rollover risk assessment system includes sensors and a processor for estimating rollover risk associated with maneuvering on varying terrain. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20100315286 | System and Method for Site Calibration of a Surveying Device - A system and method for site calibration of a controller is provided. In one embodiment, a method may include determining coordinates of a point in a first coordinate system based on at least one measurement by a surveying device, determining coordinates of the point in a second coordinate system based on data provided by a global positioning device, and calculating a transformation of the first coordinate system relative to the second coordinate system based on the coordinates determined for the point. The method may further include calibrating the controller based, at least in part, on the transformation. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100265061 | Asset Management Systems and Methods - Novel tools and techniques for tracking assets, such as high-value tools, customer equipment, testing equipment, technicians, and/or the like. Some of these tools and techniques can be used to track assets in a mobile environment (such as in a delivery truck, installation van, and/or the like). | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100253575 | GENERALIZED PARTIAL FIXING - Described is a generalized approach for integer parameter estimation, especially in the context of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). The problem solved is the case where a definitively correct integer solution cannot be identified for all ambiguity parameters in a reliable way. The proposed solution is to apply a linear transformation to the ambiguities (multiply with a matrix) such that the images of the first and the second candidate (or more) are identical. That way, from the first and second (and possibly more) candidates of the integer least-squares solution, a subset of ambiguity combinations is derived that can be fixed. Thus, it is no longer necessary to choose between the solutions as they coincide for the new ambiguities. The advantage of this approach is maximizing all information still available when finally deriving additional parameters such as position, clock error, atmospheric errors and/or time correlated noise. This technique is applicable to real-time and post-processing applications, as well as to pure GNSS applications, GNSS integrated with other sensors (e.g. INS) and other applications that have to resolve multiple integer ambiguities. This may also apply to optical distance-measurement. GNSS applications include kinematic and static positioning with single base stations as well as with multiple base stations or reference station networks. They also comprise the integer parameter estimation methods used within the reference station network computations. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100241484 | System and Method to Provide Consumables - System and method for providing consumables to machines. In one embodiment, machine data indicating a remaining quantity of a machine consumable for a machine may be received by a server. A location may be received by the server providing a location of the machine. An estimated operational duration for the machine may be determined and a supplier may be selected to provide the machine consumable based, at least in part, on the estimated operational duration. The supplier may be requested to provide the machine consumable to the machine within a time period based on the estimated operational duration. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100221067 | POWERED SCREED AND METHOD OF OPERATING - A lightweight, powered screed machine for screeding the surface of a quantity of concrete having a pair of rails extending to either side, includes a frame having a handle arrangement, for manual engagement by an operator, and an elongated screed blade extending between the support rails. The machine further includes a powered vibration mechanism mounted on the frame. A pair of posts or masts are provided with one of the pair of posts attached to the frame adjacent each end of the blade and extending upward. Each of a pair of supports is positioned adjacent an associated end of the blade. Each support has rollers for engaging and riding on one of the pair of support rails, and each of the supports is attached to the frame so as to support the frame over the concrete. Each of the supports includes a linear actuator for raising and lowering the frame adjacent the rail. A pair of laser receivers is provided with each of the pair of laser receivers mounted on an associated one of the pair of posts. A control controls the linear actuators such that the screed blade is maintained at a desired height as the screed blade is moved over the concrete. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100174507 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MEASURING ANGLES BASED ON 360 DEGREE IMAGES - A system for measuring angles includes a housing and an imaging device disposed in the housing. The system also includes a first optical element disposed in the housing and configured to receive light propagating from a first target along a first optical path and direct the light toward the imaging device and receive light propagating from a second target along a second optical path and direct the light toward the imaging device. The system further includes a processor in electrical communication with the imaging device and configured to receive data from the imaging device, compute a 360° angular map based on the received data, and determine an angular separation between the first target and the second target. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100172546 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING ANGULAR MEASUREMENTS - A method of determining an azimuth and elevation of a point in an image is provided. The method comprises positioning an imaging device at a first position and acquiring a first image. The method also comprises rotating the imaging device and acquiring a second image at the first position. The first image includes the point, and a portion of the first image overlaps a portion of the second image. The method also includes determining correspondences between features in overlapping portions of the images, determining a first transformation between coordinates of the first image and coordinates of the second image based on the correspondences, and determining a second transformation between the coordinates of the second image and a local coordinate frame. The method also includes computing the azimuth and elevation of the point based on the first transformation and the second transformation. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100159952 | System and Method for Providing Position Correction Data - System and method for providing position correction data over a data communications network. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a request for a mobile device over a data communications network, wherein the request includes a user identification. The method may further include receiving geographic position of the mobile device, selecting a mountpoint based, at least in part, on one or more of the user identification and the geographic location of the mobile device, and transmitting the position correction data to the mobile device over the data communications network. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100157283 | LASER SLOPE ADJUSTMENT - Tools and techniques for estimating elevations, including without limitation tools and techniques that employ mobile stations with laser detectors for receiving a beam emitted from a laser source and estimating an elevation of the mobile station based on the received beam. In some instances, a mobile station may be configured to identify, based on some or all of a variety of factors, a situation in which the elevation of the detector is likely to change to the extent that the slope of the emitter needs to be adjusted to account for this change in elevation. The mobile station may also be configured to inform the laser source that the slope of the emitted beam should be adjusted. In response, the laser source may adjust the slope of the emitted beam accordingly. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100131157 | VEHICLE AND VEHICLE ATTACHMENT - A vehicle and work attachment for the vehicle are disclosed in which the vehicle is of the type having a vehicle body, forward extending support arms, a motor-driven hydraulic fluid pump, hydraulic lines for carrying hydraulic fluid, a hydraulic fluid reservoir, and hydraulic cylinders for moving the arms with respect to the body. Controls may be provided for controlling the valves that control supply of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinders. These hydraulic valves may be mounted on the work attachment. Additionally, the work attachment may include hydraulic cylinders that are controlled by a control on the vehicle via valves mounted on the attachment. Processing circuitry on the attachment conditions the valve control signals. The attachment may also carry valves that control the supply of hydraulic fluid to hydraulic cylinders on the attachment for effecting movement of attachment elements. Quick connect hydraulic couplings facilitate changing attachments. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100129152 | METHOD OF COVERING AN AREA WITH A LAYER OF COMPRESSIBLE MATERIAL - A method of covering an area with a compressible material, such as asphalt, to a desired elevation using a machine that deposits a layer of the compressible material of controlled thickness on a foundation surface, and then using a compacting machine to compact the compressible material to the desired elevation, includes the steps of determining the elevation of the foundation surface over the area, and determining the difference between the elevation of the foundation surface and the desired elevation over the area. A layer of the compressible material is deposited over the area. The layer has an upper surface that varies in elevation over the area, with the layer upper surface being higher in the areas having a lower foundation elevation and lower in the areas having a higher foundation elevation. The layer is sufficiently thick to allow for compression of the layer of compressible material over the area to the desired elevation. The layer of compressible material is compressed during one or more compression operations such that the upper surface of the layer after compression is uniformly at the desired elevation over the area. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100123892 | LAYOUT METHOD - The location of one of a series of construction points at an indoor construction site is established using a robotic total station and a handheld device. Construction data is inputted into the handheld device with the construction data defining a plurality of construction points at the construction site. One of the plurality of construction points is selected with the handheld device. Data regarding the selected construction point is then transmitted wirelessly from the handheld device to a robotic total station. The robotic total station generates a beam of laser light, and directs the beam of laser light from the robotic total station to the construction point. The construction point is defined by x and y coordinates, and by an assumed z coordinate. The actual z coordinate is that of a point on a horizontal surface, such as a ceiling or floor, having the same x and y coordinates. Through an iterative process, the location of the construction point is established. | 05-20-2010 |
| 20100108858 | LASER TRANSMITTER, LASER RECEIVER AND METHOD - A combination of a laser transmitter and a laser receiver and a method determine the elevation of the receiver with respect to the transmitter. The laser transmitter includes a a laser light source for providing a beam of laser light and an element for directing the beam. The beam diverges vertically and varies in intensity vertically. A laser receiver includes an array of laser beam detectors for detecting the beam and the variations in the beam intensity in a vertical direction. The vertical position of the laser receiver with respect to the laser transmitter can be determined in this manner. The beam varies in intensity vertically in a predetermined vertical pattern, and the laser receiver detects at least a portion of the pattern defined by the beam such that the portion of the beam detected by the laser receiver may be determined. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100087984 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR MONITORING DRIVER AND VEHICLE BEHAVIOR - Systems, devices, and techniques for remotely tracking vehicle and driver behavior. Embodiments may include an on-board vehicle monitoring device, comprising an interface device and a gateway device. The interface device may include receiving information from a diagnostic system of a vehicle. The gateway device may collect a set of vehicle operating data corresponding to a driver or vehicle behavior. The set of vehicle operating data may comprise at least some of the information from the diagnostic system of the vehicle. A host computer may have instructions for compiling driver behavior data, based at least in part on analysis of received vehicle operating data. The instructions may also include instructions for providing a user interface; and instructions for causing the user interface to display, for a user, information corresponding to the compiled driver behavior data. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100085253 | Continuous Tracking Counter for Enabling Cycle-slip Free Messages in a Network of Global Navigation System Satellite Receivers - A method of communicating satellite tracking information among a network of global navigation satellite system receivers is described. The method includes determining at a first GNSS receiver which satellites in a constellation of satellites have been continuously tracked over a preceding selected time period, and for each such satellite determining its elevation with respect to the zenith. Only the elevation value for the lowest satellite in the set of satellites for which all satellites of higher elevation values have been continuously tracked over the selected time period is then transmitted to the second GNSS receiver. That receiver can then reconstruct the set of satellites which have been continuously tracked. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100085249 | Compact Transmission of GPS Information Using Compressed Measurement Record Format - A format for providing messages among GNSS apparatus includes providing a message identification block and a message body. The message identification block includes information specifying a message length and a message type block specifying a message type. Rather than sending all data from one apparatus to another, ambiguous observation data is sent to conserve bandwidth. At the sender a deconstruction of GNSS code and carrier observations using knowledge of the signal structure and constellation geometry, together with simplifications of atmospheric models, allows removal from the observation data of that information which can be implicitly understood or recreated by the recipient. This enables only the necessary information to be packed for transmission to the recipient. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100085248 | Method of Compactly Communicating Ionospheric and Tropospheric Corrections in a Network of Global Navigation System Satellite Receivers - A method of communicating corrections for information related to satellite signals among global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receivers is described. An ionosphere correction for ionosphere signal path delay is determined for a first satellite. This ionosphere correction is then compared to an ionosphere correction for ionosphere signal path delay for a satellite assumed to be directly over the receiver. The receiver then sends a message which includes only the difference between the ionosphere correction for the actual observation and the ionosphere correction for a satellite assumed to be at the zenith. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100059584 | Method and Apparatus for Configuring a Survey Controller - Method and apparatus for configuring a controller for surveying equipment. In one embodiment, an identification tag associated with a surveying tool may be detected by a controller. An indicator related to the identification tag may be presented to a user of the controller. According to another embodiment, operation of the controller may be configured based, at least in part, on the identification tag. | 03-11-2010 |
| 20100039712 | REFERENCE BEAM GENERATOR AND METHOD - A reference beam generator has first, second, and third projection turrets for projecting first, second, and third fan beams of laser light, respectively. The first, second, and third fan beams of laser light are oriented normal to each other. The turrets may be rotated such that each of said fan beams can each be rotated about an axis that is normal to the plane in which the fan beam is projected. The generator may be used to project a number of reference points and lines on multiple surfaces. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100036642 | Real-time transmission of survey data - In a survey operation, survey measurement data obtained at each location is transmitted in real time as the measurement is made to avoid the limitations of the disk or other storage medium used in saving the data, to avoid loss or corruption of the data prior to the disk being delivered to its final destination, and to allow users to immediately view the results of the measurements while the rovers are still out in the field and readily capable of redoing measurements or supplementing the results with additional measurement points. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100023229 | System and Method for Configuring a Guidance Controller - System and method for configuring guidance controllers. In one embodiment, a method includes detecting an implement, by a guidance controller, coupled to a machine. The method may further include determining a characteristic of the implement which affects a calibration parameter of the guidance controller and configuring the calibration parameter of the guidance controller based, at least in part, on the characteristic of the implement. An operational path of the machine may be controlled based on the calibration parameter. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100023222 | System and Method for Location Based Guidance Controller Configuration - System and method for location based configuration of guidance controllers for machines. In one embodiment, a method includes detecting an implement, by a guidance controller, coupled to a machine. The method may further include detecting location data for the machine by the guidance controller, determining a characteristic of the location which affects a calibration parameter of the guidance controller, configuring the calibration parameter of the guidance controller based, at least in part, on the characteristic of the location, and controlling operation of the machine and implement based on the calibration parameter. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100018726 | System and Method for Machine Guidance Control - System and method for providing guidance control for machines. In one embodiment, a method includes detecting an implement, by a guidance controller, coupled to a machine. The method may further include determining a characteristic of the implement which affects a control setting of the machine, configuring the control setting of the machine by the guidance controller based, at least in part, on the characteristic of the implement and controlling operation of the machine based on the control setting. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20090304035 | LASER TRANSMITTER AND METHOD - A laser transmitter projects a beam of laser light outward while raising and lowering the beam. The beam may define a conical surface of varying inclination. The transmitter includes a laser source that directs a beam generally vertically, and a beam diverting element. The beam diverting element is positioned in the path of the beam, intercepting the beam and redirecting it. The beam emerges from the transmitter as a non-vertical beam that is raised and lowered. The diverting element may include a pair of mirrors configured as a pentaprism, with one of the mirrors pivotable. Alternatively, the diverting element may include a plurality of micro mirrors. Also, the diverting element may include a conical reflector and an annular lens which is cyclically raised and lowered. The beam may be raised and lowered cyclically according to a predetermined schedule, or it may be raised and lowered non-cyclically. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090289120 | System and Method for Surveying With a Barcode Target - System and method for surveying. In one embodiment, a process is provided including detecting a barcode associated with a position of interest. The barcode may be decoded to extract data associated with the position of interest. Additionally, decoded data associated with the position of interest can be presented to an operator of a surveying tool. | 11-26-2009 |
| 20090248746 | MERGING DATA FROM SURVEY DEVICES - Tools for synchronizing survey data between one or more survey devices and a surveying office application. The disclosed tools can help to ensure that each of the devices, and the office application, have consistent data. An exemplary tool might detect a change to data in an office application, identify any affected files on one or more survey devices, and ensure that the affected files are updated with the appropriate information. Conversely, in other aspects, a data inconsistency (which might be caused by a data change in the office application and/or on one or more of the survey devices) might be detected, and tools might be provided to enable a user to ensure that the correct version of the data is maintained by the system. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090243921 | SYNCHRONIZATION OF DATA ON SURVEY DEVICES - Tools for synchronizing survey data between one or more survey devices and a surveying office application. The disclosed tools can help to ensure that each of the devices, and the office application, have consistent data. An exemplary tool might detect a change to data in an office application, identify any affected files on one or more survey devices, and ensure that the affected files are updated with the appropriate information. Conversely, in other aspects, a data inconsistency (which might be caused by a data change in the office application and/or on one or more of the survey devices) might be detected, and tools might be provided to enable a user to ensure that the correct version of the data is maintained by the system. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090231596 | LASER TRANSMITTER - A laser transmitter has a transmitter housing and a laser source in the housing. A gimbal support arrangement supports the laser source in the housing and includes a gimbal motor arrangement for moving the gimbal support arrangement and said laser source in said housing. A gimbal motor drive circuit actuates the gimbal motor arrangement to cause the gimbal support arrangement to move in said housing. A plurality of optical proximity sensors sense the orientation of said gimbal support arrangement to the interior of said housing. By this arrangement, damage to the transmitter is prevented. | 09-17-2009 |
| 20090231574 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ANGLE MEASUREMENT - An angle measurement device includes a light source configured to emit light along an optical path and a patterned member positioned along the optical path and configured to rotate about an axis of rotation. The patterned member includes a periodic optical variation. Light passing through the patterned member provides a spatially modulated optical waveform. The angle measurement device also includes an imaging device positioned along the optical path and including a plurality of photosensitive elements disposed in an array configuration. The imaging device is configured to receive the spatially modulated optical waveform and provide a signal associated with light intensity at each of the plurality of photosensitive elements. The angle measurement device further includes an angle determination unit coupled to the imaging device and configured to compute a rotation angle of the patterned member based on a reference waveform and the provided signal. | 09-17-2009 |
| 20090093959 | REAL-TIME HIGH ACCURACY POSITION AND ORIENTATION SYSTEM - A real-time high accuracy position and orientation system (RT-HAPOS) system for a vehicle, such as an aircraft, comprises a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver disposed on the vehicle and an integrated inertial navigation (IIN) module disposed on the vehicle. The GNSS receiver generates GNSS position data indicating approximate positions of the vehicle during a data acquisition period in which the vehicle is moving. The IIN module executes a real-time kinematic (RTK) algorithm during the data acquisition period to generate output position data indicating positions of the vehicle at a greater precision than the GNSS position data, based on the GNSS position data, inertial measurement data acquired on the vehicle during the data acquisition period, and a set of virtual reference station (VRS) observables received during the data acquisition period from a remote source external to the vehicle, where the VRS observables are based on the GNSS position data. | 04-09-2009 |
| 20090067461 | ROTATING LASER TRANSMITTER - The transmitter has a generally flat, circuit board stator, a rotor including a plurality of magnets mounted in a ring around a central opening, and a bearing, supporting the rotor for rotation about an axis that extends through the central opening, A pentaprism assembly including an optics holder is mounted on the rotor for rotation therewith. The pentaprism assembly receives a beam of laser light through the central opening and redirects at least a portion of the laser light outward in a direction normal to the rotation axis. A laser source, mounted on the stator, provides a beam of laser light through the central opening to the pentaprism assembly. The beam of laser light is aligned with the rotation axis. The laser source includes a collimating lens positioned within the rotor. A shield plate of magnetic material beneath the stator exerts a force on the rotor in conjunction with the magnets, taking play out of the bearing. The transmitter uses Hall effect sensors on the stator to control switching current to coils on the stator. The transmitter also uses the outputs of the Hall effect sensors and a timer output to control dithering of the laser beam. | 03-12-2009 |
