Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring the location of points in a defined reference frame. The apparatus includes a plurality of linear and angular accelerometers that facilitate kinematic navigation as the device moves about in space. Thus, measurements may be taken from any orientation and location. In a first embodiment of the apparatus, a distance measuring device measures the distance to the point along a measuring axis and then calculates the location of the point in the defined reference frame based upon the distance to the point and the location and orientation of the device. In a second embodiment of the apparatus, a user touches the measured point with a touching member that aligns with the measuring axis. A computing device then calculates the location of the point based upon the location of the touching member and the location and orientation of the device. Data transfer port facilitates the transfer of data acquired by the device to other systems for immediate further use or display.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for creating a computer model of a large three dimensional object as data is acquired. The invention includes a measuring device, a computer that includes a computer aided drafting program, a data transmission device, and a viewing screen. The first embodiment of the measuring device includes a distance measuring device that takes measurements from a stable, moveable location. The location of measured points is calculated based upon the distance to the measured point and the orientation of the measuring device. In both the second and third embodiments of the measuring device, the location and orientation of the device is tracked by a microcontroller based on information supplied by an inertial measurement unit containing a plurality of linear and angular accelerometers. The second embodiment includes a distance measuring device and the third includes a measuring wand of a known length.