Method and optical receiver with easy setup means for use in position measurement systems
US6630993B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 21, 2000 |
| Grant date | Oct 7, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 21, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01S5/16
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Positions can be precisely and accurately fixed instantaneously within a three-dimensional workspace. A system of two or more transmitters each continuously sweep the workspace with two fanned laser beams which are preferably about 90 degrees apart on the rotational axis of the transmitter. A receiving instrument includes, preferably, two light detectors which detect the time at which each fanned laser beam is incident thereon. The light detectors also detect a synchronization pulse from each transmitter that is emitted once per revolution. Beams from different transmitters are differentiated by different rotational speeds and, therefore, different beam incidence cycles. Because three intersecting planes uniquely define a point in three-dimensional space, by detecting at least three of the fan beams from the transmitters, the receiving instrument can calculate its position in the workspace. A Quick Calc setup procedure allows the use to define a desired coordinate system within the workspace.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.