초록 ▼

A position sensing apparatus and method useful for surveying, marking, and grading implement sensing and control is disclosed. The position sensing apparatus includes two laser reference stations, each of which projects a laser beam that periodically sweeps in a plane across the area to be surveyed.

A position sensing apparatus and method useful for surveying, marking, and grading implement sensing and control is disclosed. The position sensing apparatus includes two laser reference stations, each of which projects a laser beam that periodically sweeps in a plane across the area to be surveyed. Each time a laser beam strikes the opposite reference station, a radio timing signal is broadcast by that reference station. The position sensing apparatus also includes a portable sensing station that comprises a laser beam receiver, a radio reciever, and a programmed computer. The planar position of the portable sensing station relative to the reference stations is computed by a triangulation technique based on the relative timing of detection of the laser beams by the laser beam receiver and the reception of the radio timing signals by the radio receiver. Elevation is determined according to the height at which one of the laser beams strikes the laser beam receiver.

대표청구항 ▼

A position sensing apparatus comprising: a first energy beam transmitter operable for projecting a first energy beam that sweeps in a plane across an area in which position sensing is to occur; first reference signal means for generating a first reference signal when said first energy beam is aligne

A position sensing apparatus comprising: a first energy beam transmitter operable for projecting a first energy beam that sweeps in a plane across an area in which position sensing is to occur; first reference signal means for generating a first reference signal when said first energy beam is aligned with a first reference line; a second energy beam transmitter operable for projecting a second energy beam that sweeps in a plane across said area, wherein said first and second energy beam transmitters are positioned apart; second reference signal means for generating a second reference signal when said second energy beam is aligned with a second reference line; an energy beam receiver operable for detecting said first and second energy beams, wherein said energy beam receiver is placed at a location at which the position is to be determined; a reference signal receiver operable for receiving said first and second reference signals; and processing means coupled to said energy beam and reference signal receivers and responsive to the timing of the detection of said energy beams relative to the receipt of said reference signals for determining the position of said energy beam receiver relative to said reference lines and said energy beam transmitters.