Abstract: A vehicle guidance system for guiding a vehicle along a magnetic marker including a first magnetic sensor having a sensing axis, the first sensor measuring a first magnetic field. A second magnetic sensor has a sensing axis, the second sensor measuring a second magnetic field. The sensing axis of the second magnetic sensor crosses the sensing axis of the first magnetic sensor at a vehicle guide point. A processor is configured to receive data representative of the magnetic field measured by the first and second sensors and to calculate a lateral offset between the guide point and the magnetic marker based upon the measured magnetic fields. A method for guiding a vehicle in response to a marker having magnetic field is also disclosed.

Abstract: A vehicle guidance system for guiding a vehicle along a magnetic marker including a first magnetic sensor having a sensing axis, the first sensor measuring a first magnetic field. A second magnetic sensor has a sensing axis, the second sensor measuring a second magnetic field. The sensing axis of the second magnetic sensor crosses the sensing axis of the first magnetic sensor at a vehicle guide point. A processor is configured to receive data representative of the magnetic field measured by the first and second sensors and to calculate a lateral offset between the guide point and the magnetic marker based upon the measured magnetic fields. A method for guiding a vehicle in response to a marker having magnetic field is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for surveying the contour of land and for automatically determining the most efficient movement of dirt in order to obtain a desired grade utilizes a stationary transmitter which generates a rotating laser beam plane across the field to be surveyed. A receiver and a control circuit are mounted on a vehicle which is adapted to drive across the field. After providing the control circuit with certain initialization data, an operator drives the vehicle over the field in a predetermined manner to enable the control circuit to take elevational readings at selected points. After the survey has been completed, the operator can use the control circuit to display graphical information relating to the surveyed field. The operator can also utilize the control to calculate the amount of dirt which must be moved in order to obtain a desired grade on the field.