Abstract: A tilt predictor incorporated into a total station to predict the degree of tilt of the rotational alidade portion of a total station corresponding to the rotational orientation of the rotational alidade portion. In one embodiment, the present invention defines the plane of rotation for the rotational alidade portion with the rotational alidade portion disposed in a first rotational orientation. The rotational alidade portion is then rotated to the desired rotational orientation. This embodiment then predicts the degree of tilt of the rotational alidade portion at the desired rotational orientation.

Abstract: As equipment has a transducer (G) that receives signals from a number of objects with unknown positions and senses the directions from the transducer to the objects. The directions of the sight lines to the objects are sensed in at least two separate transducer locations. The transducer signals are supplied to calculator (CU) which calculates the positions of the objects.

Abstract: A head tracking system 10 comprises a radiation emitter 18 and a radiation sensor 16 connected to a tracking processor 12. The emitter 18 has an output 46 producing radiation with spectral peak in the range 1000 nm to 1100 nm from a conventional LED 40 with a spectral peak in the range 500 nm to 900 nm in combination with a photoluminescent material 42.

Abstract: A hand-holdable viewer having a viewing end and a viewing axis, along the latter of which a transparent display is disposed. The viewer includes a Global Positioning System receiver (GPS) and a microprocessor connected to the GPS. The viewer is also provided with a slide holder for receiving a map slide having a map image and a EEPROM containing information about the geographical extent of the map image. When a map slide is inserted into the slide holder, it is aligned with the display, and so one is superimposed on the other, when viewed through the viewing end. The microprocessor reads the EEPROM and checks the GPS to determine whether the current position of the device is within the geographical extent of the map image. If this is so, the current position appears on the display. The EEPROM may also contain information about waypoints and routes which have previously been downloaded from a personal computer, or the like.

Abstract: A modular laser-based surveying system is disclosed which comprises a laser-based distance measuring module and a separable compass module removably coupled to the laser based distance measuring module. Each of these modules may be operated as stand alone units as each has its own power supply and display. The system further may comprise a separate angle encoder module adapted to be coupled to either the laser distance measuring module or the compass module and a data logger or computer for processing data transmitted from any or all of the modules.

Abstract: A map is provided for indicating the direction of a fixed point (S), such as a sub-satellite point, from any point (P) within a specified area which is a substantial fraction of the earth's surface. The map projection is such that the actual direction to the fixed point (S) is the same as the direction shown on the map, when the map is aligned with a reference direction such as magnetic north. Optionally, the distance to the fixed point on the map represents the elevation of the satellite. Apparatus for using the map includes a holder (10) for the map and for a magnetic compass (18). A scale (22) which rotates about the fixed point on the map has a marker (32) which is positioned over the user's location on the map. The azimuthal direction of the satellite is indicated by an arrow (28) on the scale, while the elevation of the satellite is read off the scale by means of a pointer (34) located on the fixed point on the map.

Abstract: A modular laser-based surveying system is disclosed which comprises a laser-based distance measuring module and a separable compass module removably coupled to the laser based distance measuring module. Each of these modules may be operated as stand alone units as each has its own power supply and display. The system further may comprise a separate angle encoder module adapted to be coupled to either the laser distance measuring module or the compass module and a data logger or computer for processing data transmitted from any or all of the modules.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a laser beam levelling device which has a rotating frame which is rotatable round a vertical axis and an inclining arrangement which is pivotal round a horizontal axis. Means connected to a controller are also provided to enable the rotated and inclined position to be monitored. One inclining arrangement can be orientated and inclined by the controller such that the laser plane formed by a rotating laser beam is inclined in a specific direction by a specific angle. This inclination is an auxiliary inclination by means of which the laser plane is simultaneously inclined in a longitudinal and transverse gradient differing from this auxiliary direction of inclination in each case. The auxiliary direction and the auxiliary inclination are calculated automatically by the controller on the basis of the desired longitudinal and transverse gradient of the laser plane and are converted into corresponding control commands.

Abstract: A method for accurately determining the location of a pre-selected survey or construction mark, or for accurately identifying the survey position for a new mark with pre-selected location coordinates. A Satellite Positioning System (SPS), such as GPS or GLONASS, with at least two SPS stations (antennas and receiver/processors) is used to receive and analyze SPS signals from four or more SPS signal satellites. An SPS signal reference station is placed at a position with known location coordinates, which can be stationary or be known functions of time. An SPS signal roving station receives the location coordinates of the reference station and determines its own location coordinates relative to the reference station, using SPS differential positioning. The roving station is then moved to a pre-selected survey mark or position, either to locate that survey mark or to identify (by marking) a new survey position from pre-selected location coordinates.

Abstract: An apparatus for use with a compact self-leveling construction laser for the purpose of allowing the user to remotely call or page the measurement beam to his location using a retroreflector. The apparatus uses an auxiliary plumb beam provided by the construction laser for scanning the job site in search of the cooperative reflector. The invention consists of a construction laser, motor driven turntable assembly to which the construction laser is attached and a cooperative reflector carried by the operator.

Abstract: A figure coordinate marking apparatus having a fine movement device capable of easily and accurately adjusting the marker to a specific coordinate position of a figure and a marker capable of clearly indicating a marking point. The figure coordinate marking apparatus is comprised of a main body having rollers provided at each end of a straight horizontal axle perpendicular to a running direction thereof so that the main body can run in only the straight running direction, a display device, an input device, and calculating device. A measuring lever is pivotably supported on the main body to rotate right or left relative to the running direction on a horizontal plane. A first wheel for fine movement substantially in the running direction of the main body, and a second wheel for fine movement in a turning direction of the measuring lever are provided. The first wheel and second wheel are normally kept a small distance above a sheet of paper on which a figure to be measured is drawn, by an elastic member.

Abstract: A method for use by a teacher (38) to illustrate the location of a star (41) or other celestial object which consists of a rod (12) which is illuminated with a red light (14) at its far end. The rod is placed on the shoulder of a student (40) and pointed by the teacher at the object. The student, by sighting down the rod, will be able to observe the object the teacher is referring to without having any knowledge of astronomical coordinate systems or using star charts.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining the vertical distance between a point on a vehicle and a reference line comprises a linear measuring device, a fixture to aid in the taking of linear measurements of the point along two oblique angles, and a computer for calculating the vertical distance from these two measurements.

Abstract: This invention relates to a measuring device for a coordinate of a figure in which values of coordinate positions of a plurality of any given points are input, the coordinate of an asked for position relating to the given points is calculated and marking the asked for position. The measuring device for a coordinate of a figure comprises a body having rollers to trace a running line, a measuring lever pivoted on the body rotating right or left relative to the running line in a horizontal plane, characterized by a display, input device and a calculating device provided in the body, a tracing part, a reading/marking (writing) toggle switch, a reading switch and a marking needle provided in the measuring lever.

Abstract: This invention refers to a universal contour chart that allows to read the values of the elevation and azimuth angles that the parabolic antenna of an earth station must have so that it can receive and/or transmit television, telephony or data signals from and/or towards any artificial satellite in geostationary orbit. The invention is of easy operation and very practical, and consists of a geographical map of the world over which slides or displaces a separate transparent sheet that contains the printed angle contours.

Abstract: Apparatus for determining the position of a point movable throughout a measuring volume relative to a set of reference axes includes a probe member (10) having a probe tip (11) defining the position of the movable point. The measuring probe (10) also has first and second reference points (12, 13) spaced apart from one another and having a fixed known spatial relationship with one another and with the probe tip (11). Means (16) are provided for moving the probe member (10) so that the probe tip may be positioned at any desired point within the measuring volume. At least three distance measuring equipments (15) are provided, located outside the measuring volume at fixed known positions relative to the set of reference axes and each operable to determine the distance between it and each of the reference points (12, 13) on the probe member (10). Calculating means (19) are provided to calculate from said distance measurements the position of the probe tip (11).

Abstract: A drilling method of drilling an imaginary facing for excavating a curved tunnel such that the imaginary facing is nonparallel to an existing facing. The drilling method includes the steps of obtaining a first equation for transformation between a primary coordinate system defined with respect to the imaginary facing and a secondary coordinate system defined with respect to the existing facing, transforming a primary drilling pattern of the primary coordinate system into a secondary drilling pattern of the secondary coordinate system, obtaining a second equation for transformation between the secondary coordinate system and a final coordinate system defined with respect to a drilling vehicle, and transforming the secondary drilling pattern to a final drilling pattern of the final coordinate system.

Abstract: A three dimensional graphics tablet for determining the three dimensional coordinates of points on an object placed on a supporting plane. The apparatus includes an articulated arm having at least two link elements connecting a contacting tip element to the support for rotational movement about a plurality of mutually angulated axes. By means of the arm articulation, the contacting tip element can be moved to arbitrary locations within a defined volume. Potentiometers are provided for measuring each of the angles of rotation about the mutually angulated axes. These potentiometers generate signals which collectively determine the coordinates of the location of the tip element. Embodiments are disclosed having three and four degrees of freedom and a portable embodiment including a clamp or bracket are disclosed.

Abstract: A method of selecting values for parameters in a calibration map used to correct for measurement errors. The locations of points in a grid on an uncalibrated calibration plate are measured for different orientations of the calibration plate. The parameters in the calibration map and the parameters relating the orientations of the calibration plate are determined to minimize the deviation from congruence of the image under the calibration map of the grid in each orientation. The orientations should be related by rigid motions having rotation axes that are separated sufficiently to remove uncertainties in the calibration which arise if the rotation axes are all collinear or nearly collinear.

Abstract: A drafting instrument (14) is provided for drawing perspective lines without physically preestablishing and marking a vanishing point. A carriage (16) and drawing blade (18) are supported on roller means (20) for movement along a drawing surface. Control means (24) adjustably pivots the roller means such that each point along the drawing blade scribes an arc about a common point as the carriage moves. The drawing blade defines substantially parallel lines in perspective radiating substantially from the common point as a vanishing point as the carriage moves.

Abstract: A device and method for locating a point with preset coordinates x and y in an orthogonal system of coordinates with an X and a Y axes. The device has a planetary train kinematically connected to a mechanical arm via a single four-link parallelogram. The mechanical arm is kinetically connected to another four-link parallelogram. The planetary train is provided with a body and a carrier having a rotation axle pivotally secured in the body. The axle provides a center of the orthogonal system of coordinates around which is moved, through an angle .beta., is a point which is a base point for locating a sought-for point with preset coordinates x and y in the orthogonal system of coordinates. The planetary train further includes a satellite gear rigidly connected to the carrier rotation axle and has its own rotation axle that serves as a center of an angular turn, through an axle .alpha. of a point which represents the base point.

Abstract: A three dimensional graphics tablet for determining the three dimensional coordinates of points on an object placed on a supporting plane. The apparatus includes an articulated arm having at least two link elements connecting a contacting tip element to the support for rotational movement about a plurality of mutually angulated axes. By means of the arm articulation, the contacting tip element can be moved to arbitrary locations within a defined volume. Potentiometers are provided for measuring each of the angles of rotation about the mutually angulated axes. These potentiometers generate signals which collectively determine the coordinates of the location of the tip element. Embodiments are disclosed having three and four degrees of freedom.

Abstract: A technique for plotting the provenience of an archaeological artifact with respect to a fixed reference point is disclosed herein. This technique utilizes an apparatus including a base assembly positionable at the fixed reference point, means movable to the location of the artifact from a given starting point, and means connected with the base assembly and the movable means and responsive to movement of the latter to the artifact location from its given starting point for indicating the position of the artifact location within a particular coordinate system, specifically a spherical coordinate system including coordinates .phi., .theta. and .rho..

Abstract: A method and apparatus for remote control surveying which eliminates the need for a rod man or other assistant while performing surveying operations with an electronic distance measuring device. The method includes positioning reflectors over the end points of a base line of known length, positioning an electronic distance measuring device over a desired survey station, rotating the reflectors into alignment with the electronic measuring device by remote control, and measuring the distance from the survey station to the two reflectors. The method also includes traverse operations using a single reflector positioned over a base point. The location of the survey station can then be calculated and the electronic distance measuring device may be relocated to subsequent survey stations and the reflectors realigned by remote control. The apparatus includes an attachment for a standard surveyor's tribrach which rotatably supports a standard reflector unit and an electric motor in a vertical position.

Abstract: In order to determine the correct relative positions of marker tips on an adjustable jig used for chassis and body repairs of a damaged automotive vehicle, a three-dimensional representation of the spatial distribution of characteristic points of the vehicular structure is created by means of two projectors emitting pairs of intersecting light rays with the aid of mostly opaque slides bearing conjugate patterns of transparent dots. In a presetting operation the projectors are so oriented that certain--preferably distinctly colored--light rays traversing their slides intersect at fixed spots on a stationary wall against which the jig is subsequently placed for an adjustment of its markers until their tips coincide with the intersections of respective pairs of preferably distinctively colored orientation rays. The slides may also bear projectable legends indicating the type of vehicle to which they pertain.

Abstract: A direction indicating device has an azimuth card which is positioned upon a compass. The card is provided with a number of indicia marks corresponding to specific geographic locations. An adjustable straight-line cursor is positioned to be aligned with an indicia marking corresponding to the geographic location at which the device is being used and with the pivot point of the compass magnetic needle such that when the compass magnetic needle is pointing to magnetic North, the straight-line cursor will indicate the true direction of the predetermined locale from that specific geographic location.

Abstract: In an exemplary embodiment, an ultrasonic scanning apparatus has an articulated support for at least one scan head and angle indicators for determining point- and/or direction-coordinates of the scanning. An angle detection and processing is desired which is considerably simplified as compared with the state of the art but which is nevertheless highly precise, interference-insensitive and cost-economical.

Abstract: An ocean bottom surveying system comprising a recording mechanism mounted on the ocean floor. A stadia moved about the recording mechanism is connected thereto. Thus, by moving the stadia to various locations in the vicinity of the recording mechanism, a series of values indicating train and elevation relationships are obtained by the recording mechanism. The recorded data is later fed to a read-out system which plots a record showing bottom elevations at various points about the ocean bottom.

Abstract: A position measuring apparatus for accurately determining a second position relative to a predetermined first position of an object to be moved. The apparatus is particularly adapted for use in a game situation, such as a war game, wherein a ship or aircraft is to be moved according to a specified set of speed and direction conditions from a precisely defined first position to a precisely determined and defined second position.