Of Height Relative To A Light Plane Patents (Class 356/4.08)
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Patent number: 12231990Abstract: A computing device establishes communication with a financial institution communication device, and receives an instruction for a user to perform an action to authenticate the user. The action includes providing user-provided data indicative of a location. The computing device determines first location information based on the user-provided data. The computing device also determines second location information using a location sensor. The computing device authenticates the used based on determining that the first location information correlates to the second location information.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2023Date of Patent: February 18, 2025Assignee: United Services Automobile Association (USAA)Inventors: Samantha Elizabeth Taylor, Yogen Rai, Zachery C. Lake, Rachel Elizabeth Csabi, Hollie Ilene King, Nicholas C. Wheeler, Victor Kwak
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Patent number: 11629959Abstract: A surveying instrument includes a distance measuring module for measuring a distance to the object, in which the distance measuring module includes a light projecting optical system configured to project a distance measuring light and a light receiving optical system configured to receive a reflected distance measuring light, the light receiving optical system includes a prism having a quadrangular shape and a photodetector, the prism includes a first plane, a second plane, a third plate and a fourth plane, configured to enter the reflected distance measuring light in the first plane, sequentially internally reflect on the second plane, the first plane, and the third plane, transmit through the fourth plane, and project, and the reflect distance measuring light projected from the prism configured to be received by the photodetector.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2020Date of Patent: April 18, 2023Assignee: TOPCON CorporationInventor: Taichi Yuasa
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Patent number: 10871373Abstract: The sensor rod assembly includes a rod and a plurality of sensor arrays disposed on the rod. Each sensor array includes a plurality of sensor units, where each sensor unit includes a plurality of sensor devices. The sensor rod assembly includes detection circuitry coupled to the plurality of sensor devices. The detection circuitry is disposed on the rod. The detection circuitry includes a plurality of detection circuits. A particular detection circuit receives an output of a particular sensor device. The sensor rod assembly includes a user interface and a controller. The controller includes one or more processors configured to receive one or more detection signals from the detection circuitry, and determine a position of a laser beam incident on the plurality of sensor arrays based on the received one or more detection signals from the detection circuitry.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2017Date of Patent: December 22, 2020Assignee: LASER ELEVATIONS, LLCInventor: Andrew Morris
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Patent number: 10705535Abstract: The present invention provides a mobile robot configured to navigate an operating environment, that includes a controller circuit that directs a drive of the mobile robot to navigate the mobile robot through an environment using camera-based navigation system and a camera including optics defining a camera field of view and a camera optical axis, where the camera is positioned within the recessed structure and is tilted so that the camera optical axis is aligned at an acute angle of above a horizontal plane in line with the top surface and is aimed in a forward drive direction of the robot body, and the camera is configured to capture images of the operating environment of the mobile robot.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2018Date of Patent: July 7, 2020Assignee: iRobot CorporationInventors: Mario Munich, Nikolai Romanov, Dhiraj Goel, Philip Fong
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Patent number: 9405171Abstract: The device (1) comprises a controllable illumination module (2) comprising a laser source (3) capable of emitting a laser pulse, a controllable high-speed shutter (5), and an activatable control unit (6) which controls said illumination module (2) and said shutter (5) simultaneously, and which synchronizes the generation of laser pulses by the illumination module (2) and the opening of the shutter (5) so as to move said shutter (5) into an open position, an adjustable time lag after the generation of a laser pulse, and this over an adjustable opening period, said illumination module (2) and said shutter (5) forming part of an assembly (12) having mechanical integrity.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2014Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: Compagnie Industrielle des Lasers CILASInventor: Regis Grasser
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Patent number: 9222772Abstract: A method of operating a rotary laser level includes actuating a drive system to level a laser assembly of a base unit of the rotary laser level, and emitting a laser beam from the rotating laser assembly after the laser assembly has been leveled. A first beam center position of the emitted laser beam is detected using a portable receiving unit. An initial level position is determined at the first beam center position, and the receiving unit is fixed at the first beam center position. The base unit is then rotated so the laser assembly is pointing away from the receiving unit and the laser assembly is leveled again. The laser beam is then centered on the receiving unit again and a current level position is determined. The current level position is compared to the initial level position to determine a state of calibration of a level position of the laser assembly based on the comparison.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2013Date of Patent: December 29, 2015Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Jay R. Munroe, Nathan J. Light, Antony J. Wilks
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Publication number: 20150124239Abstract: The invention relates to a system for measuring the position of the contact wire of an overhead power line, comprising a first measurement means including a vertical rangefinder capable of measuring the height of the contact wire and a second measurement means capable of measuring the offset of the contact wire. The system also comprises at least one first inclinometer that enables the inclination of the mounting of the system positioned on the rails to be measured, and a camera pointing upward and capable of capturing the image of the contact wire, and the second measurement means comprises a second inclinometer secured to the laser rangefinder, which is mounted on a motor-driven lateral-inclination pivot, and which is capable of measuring the angle of the beam thereof relative to the vertical when aimed at the contact wire.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2013Publication date: May 7, 2015Inventor: Edmond Briand
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Patent number: 8599366Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for determining a deformation of a disc-shaped workpiece, in particular a mold wafer. The device comprises a rotatable, height and laterally adjustable mounting unit for mounting an inner region of the disc-shaped workpiece; a determination unit for determining eccentricity of a center axis of the disc-shaped workpiece from a center axis of the mounting unit and for generating a suitable adjustment signal for the mounting unit; a deposit unit for depositing the disc-shaped workpiece during a process of lateral adjustment of the mounting unit; and a fixed-height detector unit for measuring a deviation of a plurality of measuring points, respectively, in a non-mounted outer region of the disc-shaped workpiece from a predetermined height position corresponding to the deformation by rotating the mounting unit or the detector unit at a predetermined height position of the mounting unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2012Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: ERS Electronic GmbHInventor: Rudger Schindler
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Patent number: 8482721Abstract: A laser light receiver used to detect pulsed laser light that is produced by a rotating laser light source on a construction jobsite is disclosed. In this manner, the laser receiver acts as an elevation detector and provides an equipment operator, or a construction worker, with the current elevation status with respect to the plane of laser light. The laser receiver is a unitary device that can detect multiple light frequencies/wavelengths, including laser beams that are in the green, red, and infrared spectra. The laser receiver also is capable of discriminating between such laser beams and other interference light sources, particularly fluorescent light sources.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2012Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: Chris W. Snyder
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Publication number: 20130038858Abstract: A laser light receiver used to detect pulsed laser light that is produced by a rotating laser light source on a construction jobsite is disclosed. In this manner, the laser receiver acts as an elevation detector and provides an equipment operator, or a construction worker, with the current elevation status with respect to the plane of laser light. The laser receiver is a unitary device that can detect multiple light frequencies/wavelengths, including laser beams that are in the green, red, and infrared spectra. The laser receiver also is capable of discriminating between such laser beams and other interference light sources, particularly fluorescent light sources.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2012Publication date: February 14, 2013Applicant: TRIMBLE NAVIGATION LIMITEDInventor: Trimble Navigation Limited
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Patent number: 8314941Abstract: In a measurement device for measuring a peripheral position in a Cartesian coordinate system, a rotating laser source is configured to emit a laser beam along a radius of a rotator. A reflector is configured to reflect the laser beam in a direction orthogonal to a path of the laser beam, and a scale having a pattern of transparent and reflective areas is positioned at a peripheral position of the measurement device. A detector is configured to provide a sequence of pulses by detecting a reflex or transmission of the rotating laser beam while the laser scans over the scale. The sequence of pulses correspond to Cartesian coordinates of the system.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2009Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: Micronic Mydata ABInventor: Jonas Walther
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Publication number: 20120236289Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for determining a deformation of a disc-shaped workpiece, in particular a mould wafer. The device comprises a rotatable, height and laterally adjustable mounting unit for mounting an inner region of the disc-shaped workpiece; a determination unit for determining eccentricity of a centre axis of the disc-shaped workpiece from a centre axis of the mounting unit and for generating a suitable adjustment signal for the mounting unit; a deposit unit for depositing the disc-shaped workpiece during a process of lateral adjustment of the mounting unit; and a fixed-height detector unit for measuring a deviation of a plurality of measuring points, respectively, in a non-mounted outer region of the disc-shaped workpiece from a predetermined height position corresponding to the deformation by rotating the mounting unit or the detector unit at a predetermined height position of the mounting unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2012Publication date: September 20, 2012Applicant: ERS ELECTRONIC GMBHInventor: Rudger Schindler
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Patent number: 8060344Abstract: A method and system comprising a Master station, a processor and one or more targets that allows a user of said system to automatically generate a 3 dimensional graphical representation of a construction site and also overlay a drawing onto the graphical representation to guide the user within a virtual space being displayed by the processor.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2007Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Inventor: Sam Stathis
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Patent number: 7710546Abstract: In a laser receiver receiving a laser beam from a laser transmitter and a laser receiving system composed of a plurality of laser receivers, a plurality of photo devices are arranged on an acceptance surface so that acceptance angles of the laser beam thereof are mutually different in order to detect distances between an acceptance position of a center point of a received laser beam on an acceptance surface and a reference point and an elevation angle of the received laser beam from a reference surface. Also, distance detection means respectively compare acceptance levels of the photo devices detected by the level detection means with thresholds, thereby detecting distance between the center point of the laser beam and the reference point of the acceptance surface by combination of comparison results thereof.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2005Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Hiroki Akano
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Publication number: 20100103405Abstract: An optical body height measurement instrument is provided comprising: a lens configured to be movable along a direction parallel to the height of an object to be measured and form an image of the object; a photosensitive sensor arranged at an image side of the lens to sense the image; and a driving device configured to drive the lens along a direction parallel to the height of the object, wherein when the lens is moved across the height at which the head of the object is located, a hop occurs to an output of the photosensitive sensor; and wherein the height of the object is determined based on the height of the lens measured at the time of the occurrence of the hop. The optical body height measurement instrument can rapidly, conveniently and accurately measure the height based on the infrared rays emitted from the measured object or the light with a predetermined wavelength emitted from an auxiliary light source so long as the person to be measured stands within a certain region.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2008Publication date: April 29, 2010Applicant: ZHONGSHAN TRANSTEK ELECTRONICS CO., LTDInventor: Weichao Pan
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Patent number: 7644505Abstract: The levelling rod (1) for a level determining apparatus (2) has position indications therealong along expressed by barcode symbols (11, 12). At least some of said barcode symbols are color barcode symbols, the color serving to encode said position indications. The barcode symbols can be organised in first and second blocks (12, 11) of barcode symbols, each providing a position indication, wherein the length (Ls) occupied along the rod (1) by a first block (12) is smaller than the length (Lb) occupied along the rod by a second block (11), the first blocks thereby providing a finer position indication than the second blocks. The first blocks (12) of barcode symbols can be formed of monochrome and color bar code symbols, e.g. just one color barcode symbol and at least one monochrome barcode symbol, while the second blocks (11) can be formed purely of color barcode symbols. The invention also relates to a level determining apparatus specifically adapted for the above rod, and to a method of using that rod.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2005Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Assignee: Leica Geosystems AGInventors: Zheng Dong Zeng, Charles Leopold Elisabeth Dumoulin, Chin Keong Ng, Keliang Zhou
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Patent number: 7589829Abstract: A laser measuring system, which comprises a laser rotary irradiation device for forming a laser reference plane by projecting a laser beam in rotary irradiation, and a photodetection device for performing position measurement by receiving the laser beam, wherein the laser rotary irradiation device comprises a laser beam emitter, an emission light amount adjusting means for adjusting light amount of the laser beam of the laser beam emitter, and a first communication means for performing communication with said photodetection device, and wherein the photodetection device comprises a photodetector for detecting the reference plane, a second communication means for performing communication to and from the laser rotary irradiation device, and a control unit for calculating whether a photodetection signal from the photodetector is within a predetermined range or not, wherein the first communication means transmits a laser beam emitting condition of the laser rotary irradiation device to the second communication meaType: GrantFiled: February 8, 2008Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TOPCONInventors: Takaaki Yamazaki, Yasutaka Katayama
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Publication number: 20080309915Abstract: The invention relates to a level sensor for determining a height of a substrate. The level sensor generates one or more measurement beam and directs the measurement beam to a measurement spot on the substrate and produces a reflected measurement beam. The level sensor also generates one or more reference beams. A detector detects both the reflected measurement beam and the reference beam, respectively, and produces a measurement signal and a reference signal, respectively, the measurement signal being indicative for the height at the measurement spot. A processor that receives these signals and corrects the measurement signal based on the reference signal. The level sensor has an optical arrangement in a predetermined area close to where the substrate is to be located. The measurement beam and the reference beam propagate along substantially equal optical paths of propagation in the predetermined area.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2008Publication date: December 18, 2008Applicant: ASML NETHERLANDS B.V.Inventors: Nicolaas Antonius Allegondus Johannes Van Asten, Oana Cristina Balan, Luberthus Ouwehand, Machiel Jacobus Johannes Viguurs, Alexander Charles Franciscus Anna Van Well, Lun Kai Cheng, Huibert Blokland, Elke Van Loenhout, Hans Baltus Bakker
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Publication number: 20080252875Abstract: A laser beam projecting device, comprising a laser light source for emitting a laser beam, a wavelength selecting film for allowing the laser beam from the laser light source to. pass, and a birefringent optical member arranged on an optical axis closer to an exit side than the wavelength selecting film, wherein the wavelength selecting film is tilted so that an incident angle of the laser beam is in a range of 45° to 80°.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2008Publication date: October 16, 2008Inventors: Michiyo Saito, Kunihiro Hayashi
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Patent number: 7414704Abstract: An improved laser light receiver is provided that senses a laser light beam and determines positional elevation of the laser receiver based on the position where the laser light beam impacts the light sensors of the laser receiver. The laser receiver automatically adjusts its zero-reference point when it senses a magnet that has been mounted on a clamping device that holds the housing of the laser light detector in at least two predetermined attitudes with respect to the clamping device. Thus the invention operates as a clamp-actuated “offset” on-grade mode for the laser receiver.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2007Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: Apache Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Kevin R. Nau
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Patent number: 7414241Abstract: A laser device includes a virtual source configured to aim laser energy that originates from a true source. The virtual source has a vertical rotational axis during vertical motion of the virtual source and the vertical axis passes through an exit point from which the laser energy emanates independent of virtual source position. The emanating laser energy is collinear with an orientation line. The laser device includes a virtual source manipulation mechanism that positions the virtual source. The manipulation mechanism has a center of lateral pivot approximately coincident with a lateral index and a center of vertical pivot approximately coincident with a vertical index. The vertical index and lateral index intersect at an index origin. The virtual source and manipulation mechanism auto align the orientation line through the index origin during virtual source motion.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2005Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLCInventors: Jill R. Scott, Paul L. Tremblay
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Patent number: 7408626Abstract: The transmitter for projecting a beam of laser light includes a source of a beam of laser light, and a projection arrangement for directing the beam of laser light at a selected grade. The transmitter further includes a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of said transmitter, and a temperature correction circuit, including a look-up table, responsive to said temperature sensor, for adjusting said projection arrangement in dependence upon offset grade values that are stored in said look-up table for a plurality of transmitter temperatures. These offset grade values are separately determined on an empirical basis for each transmitter, such that temperatures induced errors in the direction of the beam of laser light are compensated.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2006Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: J. David Greco
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Patent number: 7400386Abstract: Combined laser-based apparatus for determining both altitude and ground velocity of an aircraft comprises: a laser source for emitting pulsed laser beams substantially at a predetermined wavelength; a plurality of first optical elements for directing the laser beams from a first optical path to a second optical path which exits the first optical elements; a plurality of second optical elements configured to form a telescope, the second optical path and telescope field of view being fixedly co-aligned; an optical scanner for directing the second optical path and telescope field of view to desired ground positions while maintaining the co-alignment thereof; the telescope for receiving Doppler wavelength shifted reflections of the pulsed laser beams and directing the received ground reflections substantially over a third optical path; an optical filter element for separating the ground reflections of the third optical path into first and second portions that are dependent on the Doppler wavelength shift of the gType: GrantFiled: May 30, 2006Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.Inventors: James R. Jamieson, Gary E. Halama, Clinton T. Meneely
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Patent number: 7359038Abstract: Ground targets can be passively identified on uneven terrain from an observation point elevation above a known reference point, a line-of-sight inclination angle, an azimuth angle and a digital terrain elevation database wherein actual elevations of surrounding latitude and longitude coordinates are stored and retrievable. Using the observation point's elevation above the known reference point and using the line-of-sight elevation angle from the observation point to the ground target, an initial estimate of the latitude and longitude coordinates of the ground target is made and used as an index into a digital terrain elevation database.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2006Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Inventors: Patrick J. Donoghue, David Y. Hsu
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Publication number: 20080074639Abstract: Ground targets can be passively identified on uneven terrain from an observation point elevation above a known reference point, a line-of-sight inclination angle, an azimuth angle and a digital terrain elevation database wherein actual elevations of surrounding latitude and longitude coordinates are stored and retrievable. Using the observation point's elevation above the known reference point and using the line-of-sight elevation angle from the observation point to the ground target, an initial estimate of the latitude and longitude coordinates of the ground target is made and used as an index into a digital terrain elevation database.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2006Publication date: March 27, 2008Inventors: Patrick J. Donoghue, David Y. Hsu
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Patent number: 7342647Abstract: A laser-based altimeter for use on-board an aircraft comprises: a first housing including a hollow cavity and an exit aperture, and a second housing including a hollow cavity and an entrance aperture. A laser source and a plurality of first optical elements are fixedly supported in a compact configuration within the hollow cavity of the first housing. The plurality of first optical elements directs laser beams generated by the laser source from a first optical path to a second optical path which exits the first housing through the exit aperture. At least one second optical element is configured within the hollow cavity of the second housing to form a telescope with a predetermined field of view. The telescope receives at the entrance aperture reflections of the pulsed laser beams from objects within the field of view thereof and focuses the received reflections substantially to a focal point.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2006Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.Inventors: Clinton T. McNeely, Mark D. Ray, Gary E. Halama
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Patent number: 7327442Abstract: Methods and systems for automatically determining the height of an object observed by a camera are described. One such method involves determining the distance from the top of the object to the camera, determining the distance from the bottom of the object to the camera, measuring the angle of incidence, from the camera's perspective, between the top and bottom of the object, and computing the height of the object from the two distances and the angle of incidence. The method may be computer controlled.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2005Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: Nvidia CorporationInventors: Andrew C. Fear, William Samuel Herz
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Patent number: 7241990Abstract: A laser device includes a target position, an optical component separated a distance J from the target position, and a laser energy source separated a distance H from the optical component, distance H being greater than distance J. A laser source manipulation mechanism exhibits a mechanical resolution of positioning the laser source. The mechanical resolution is less than a spatial resolution of laser energy at the target position as directed through the optical component. A vertical and a lateral index that intersect at an origin can be defined for the optical component. The manipulation mechanism can auto align laser aim through the origin during laser source motion. The laser source manipulation mechanism can include a mechanical index. The mechanical index can include a pivot point for laser source lateral motion and a reference point for laser source vertical motion.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLCInventors: Jill R. Scott, Paul L. Tremblay
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Patent number: 7227121Abstract: A laser beam receiver with non-interdigitated photosensors arranged in a repeating pattern of “n” channels of photosensors in each of “m” sectors is disclosed. The photocurrent from both the anode and cathode terminals of the photosensor is used to determine laser beam position. The repeating patterns connect one set of “n” channel amplifier channels with the corresponding set of “m” sector amplifier channels. The position of the laser beam is determined by its position relative to the sector and channel the laser beam impinges on. The laser beam position relative to sector boundaries is determined by the distribution of photosensor current into the “n” channels of amplifiers from the “n” photosensors within each sector. The sector of the photosensor the laser beam impinges on is determined by the distribution of photosensor current into the “m” channels of sector amplifiers from the “m” groups of “n” photosensors.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2006Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: Frank Beard Douglas
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Patent number: 7224473Abstract: A laser receiver detects a thin beam of laser light and distinguishes between the beam of laser light and an omni-directional pulse of light from a strobe by the use of an additional photo-detector. The device takes into account the possibility that the additional photo-detector could be illuminated simultaneously with the main photo-detectors at the end of the main photo-detectors closest to the additional photo-detector.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2004Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: James Thomas Zalusky
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Patent number: 7190439Abstract: A direct-reading stadia rod includes a flexible tape and a sensing head that is movable therealong. The sensing head includes a keyboard, a movement sensor, a laser beam receiver, and a display. The rod is calibrated with a benchmark elevation by placing the base of the tape on a point of known elevation and moving the sensing head along the tape until it is properly aligned with the beam of a remote laser level. With the sensing head fixed at that location on the tape, the benchmark elevation is input using the keyboard. Thereafter, the tape is placed upon a point of unknown elevation, and the sensing head is moved until the laser beam receiver again detects alignment with the laser plane. Based on data from the movement sensor indicated by the sensing head from the benchmark position, the elevation of the second point is automatically determined and displayed.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2004Date of Patent: March 13, 2007Inventor: Max E. Burkhart, Jr.
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Patent number: 7106424Abstract: A laser-based altimeter for use on-board an aircraft comprises: a first housing including a hollow cavity and an exit aperture, and a second housing including a hollow cavity and an entrance aperture. A laser source and a plurality of first optical elements are fixedly supported in a compact configuration within the hollow cavity of the first housing. The plurality of first optical elements directs laser beams generated by the laser source from a first optical path to a second optical path which exits the first housing through the exit aperture. At least one second optical element is configured within the hollow cavity of the second housing to form a telescope with a predetermined field of view. The telescope receives at the entrance aperture reflections of the pulsed laser beams from objects within the field of view thereof and focuses the received reflections substantially to a focal point.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2003Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.Inventors: Clinton T. Meneely, Mark D. Ray, Gary E. Halama
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Patent number: 7095486Abstract: The transmitter for projecting a beam of laser light includes a source of a beam of laser light, and a projection arrangement for directing the beam of laser light at a selected grade. The transmitter further includes a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of said transmitter, and a temperature correction circuit, including a look-up table, responsive to said temperature sensor, for adjusting said projection arrangement in dependence upon offset grade values that are stored in said look-up table for a plurality of transmitter temperatures. These offset grade values are separately determined on an empirical basis for each transmitter, such that temperatures induced errors in the direction of the beam of laser light are compensated.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: J. David Greco
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Patent number: 7079228Abstract: Combined laser-based apparatus for determining both altitude and ground velocity of an aircraft comprises: a laser source for emitting pulsed laser beams substantially at a predetermined wavelength; a plurality of first optical elements for directing the laser beams from a first optical path to a second optical path which exits the first optical elements; a plurality of second optical elements configured to form a telescope, the second optical path and telescope field of view being fixedly co-aligned; an optical scanner for directing the second optical path and telescope field of view to desired ground positions while maintaining the co-alignment thereof; the telescope for receiving Doppler wavelength shifted reflections of the pulsed laser beams and directing the received ground reflections substantially over a third optical path; an optical filter element for separating the ground reflections of the third optical path into first and second portions that are dependent on the Doppler wavelength shift of the gType: GrantFiled: April 15, 2004Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.Inventors: James R. Jamieson, Gary E. Halama, Clinton T. Meneely
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Patent number: 7064819Abstract: Field-deployable spatial positioning or measurement systems are provided for improved versatility, reliability and performance. The spatial positioning or measurement systems use rotating laser fans or beams for positioning and measuring and include a system integrated field-deployable length standard that uses a reelable tape with positional indents. The systems further include the use of labyrinth seals at interface volumes between rotating laser heads and transmitter assemblies to prevent ingress of contaminants and allow for elimination of the use of rotary seals. Further, new dynamic leveling techniques are provided to plumb positional laser transmitter systems. Still further, strobe beam configurations are provided for improved near/far performance and a vertical mode sensing scheme that allows switching to measuring tall structures when needed.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2005Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Philip L. Detweiler, James E. Denney, Jonathan A. Jackson, Frank B. Douglas
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Patent number: 7053394Abstract: Two light beams are incident on the same position on a surface of an object (105) to be measured obliquely from upper sides facing each other, and positions at which the reflecting light beams are incident on respective predetermined detection surfaces are detected by position detectors (102 and 104) for outputting respectively as position detection signals. The displacement of the surface to be measured is detected by obtaining the difference between or the sum of respective position detection signals so as to cancel the components in the directions opposite to each other out of the components indicating changes from the reference position included in respective position detection signals.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2002Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shinya Abe
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Patent number: 7030361Abstract: A laser beam receiver with non-interdigitated photosensors arranged in a repeating pattern of “n” channels of photosensors in each of “m” sectors is disclosed. The photocurrent from both the anode and cathode terminals of the photosensor is used to determine laser beam position. The repeating patterns connect one set of “n” channel amplifier channels with the corresponding set of “m” sector amplifier channels. The position of the laser beam is determined by its position relative to the sector and channel the laser beam impinges on. The laser beam position relative to sector boundaries is determined by the distribution of photosensor current into the “n” channels of amplifiers from the “n” photosensors within each sector. The sector of the photosensor the laser beam impinges on is determined by the distribution of photosensor current into the “m” channels of sector amplifiers from the “m” groups of “n” photosensors.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2004Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: Frank Beard Douglas
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Patent number: 6987562Abstract: An object detecting apparatus having a laser radar with a single light sensing element for foreign matter detection is disposed behind a front grille of a vehicle. The apparatus includes a projection window. The apparatus uses a laser beam for object detection. The laser beam includes a main portion, an upper scattered portion, and a lower scattered portion. The single light sensing element is so positioned that it collects reflection of the lower scattered portion of the laser beam reflected on the projection window and reflection of the upper scattered portion of the laser beam reflected on the front grille.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2005Date of Patent: January 17, 2006Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Takekazu Terui
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Patent number: 6870608Abstract: Field-deployable spatial positioning or measurement systems are provided for improved versatility, reliability and performance. The spatial positioning or measurement systems use rotating laser fans or beams for positioning and measuring and include a system integrated field-deployable length standard that uses a reelable tape with positional indents. The systems further include the use of labyrinth seals at interface volumes between rotating laser heads and transmitter assemblies to prevent ingress of contaminants and allow for elimination of the use of rotary seals. Further, new dynamic leveling techniques are provided to plumb positional laser transmitter systems. Still further, strobe beam configurations are provided for improved near/far performance and a vertical mode sensing scheme that allows switching to measuring tall structures when needed.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2003Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Philip L. Detweiler, James E. Denney, Jonathon A. Jackson, Frank B. Douglas
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Patent number: 6822228Abstract: A laser device includes a target position, an optical component separated a distance J from the target position, and a laser energy source separated a distance H from the optical component, distance H being greater than distance J. A laser source manipulation mechanism exhibits a mechanical resolution of positioning the laser source. The mechanical resolution is less than a spatial resolution of laser energy at the target position as directed through the optical component. A vertical and a lateral index that intersect at an origin can be defined for the optical component. The manipulation mechanism can auto align laser aim through the origin during laser source motion. The laser source manipulation mechanism can include a mechanical index. The mechanical index can include a pivot point for laser source lateral motion and a reference point for laser source vertical motion.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2001Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Bechtel BWXT Idaho, LLCInventors: Jill R. Scott, Paul L. Tremblay
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Publication number: 20040125356Abstract: A laser levelling apparatus includes a platform, a base assembly, a body assembly, a head assembly and a laser assembly. The body assembly is rotatable about a body axis relative to the base assembly, the head assembly is rotatably supported by the body and rotatable about a head assembly axis transverse to the body axis and the laser assembly supported by the head assembly and rotatable about a laser assembly axis which is transverse the head assembly axis. The laser assembly has a laser diode and focusing elements and laser collimator the laser beam with the laser assembly. The head assembly is mounted between a first shaft end mounted at a first position of the body and a second shaft end mounted at the second position of the body opposed to the first position. A head assembly collimator is used to adjust the axis of rotation of the head assembly. A base assembly leveller is used to adjust the level of the base relative to the platform in at least two transverse directions.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 4, 2004Publication date: July 1, 2004Inventor: Michael Connolly
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Patent number: 6750953Abstract: Receiver circuits are provided for detecting a target light source such as a swept laser beam. The circuits include a photodetector adapted to produce a first detector output signal and a second detector output signal where the relative amplitudes of the first and second detector output signals are related to the position of a swept laser beam impinging thereon. A first log signal is determined, which is based upon a logarithmic and optionally scaled calculation utilizing the first detector output signal. Correspondingly, a second log signal is determined, which is based upon a logarithmic and optionally scaled calculation utilizing the second detector output signal. The position of the beam is then computed based upon a subtraction of the second log output signal from the first log output signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2003Date of Patent: June 15, 2004Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: Frank B. Douglas
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Publication number: 20040086198Abstract: A system for inspecting components is provided. The system includes a light source illuminating a component feature so as to create a specular or non-lambertian reflection off the component feature. An image sensor is positioned to receive the specular or non-lambertian reflection and to generate point brightness data and point position data, such as for a point of light reflected off the component feature. A height measurement system receives the point brightness data and the point position data and generates feature height data.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventors: Gerald Brown, Richard Goedeken, Charles Harris, Hak Sim, Weerakiat Wahawisan
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Patent number: 6714284Abstract: The present invention relates to a distance measuring device for measuring athlete throws in a throwing event at a track and field meet. The device is setup in a position outside a throwing circle and a landing area for the event being measured and is aimed at a target placed at a landing position of a thrown object. The present invention also relates to a method of using a distance measuring device to measure athlete throws in a throwing event at a track and field meet from a position outside of a throwing area and a landing area for a event being measured by aiming the device at a target placed at the landing position of a thrown object. The present invention further relates to a method of using a laser distance measuring device to determine the height of a cross bar in a leaping event at a track and field meet.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2002Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Inventors: Richard Grant Norman, James K. Hesch
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Patent number: 6693706Abstract: A laser reference system orients a reference plane of laser light generated by a transmitter so compensation is made for a rake angle between the first and second axes of the transmitter and an alignment axis and an axis perpendicular thereto. The transmitter includes an optical system arranged to generate a laser beam, the optical system projecting said laser beam radially along a rotational arc defined about a central rotational axis, thereby substantially defining a reference plane of laser light, and a positioning arrangement, coupled to said optical system, for adjusting the angular orientation of the optical system with respect to a first transmitter axis and with respect to a second transmitter axis. A detector is arranged to detect reception of the laser beam. The detector includes a generally vertically arranged row of detector elements. The detector further includes a transmitter for transmitting information regarding the location of said laser beam, as detected by said detector elements.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Kent W. Kahle, James T. Zalusky, Francisco R. Green
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Patent number: 6643004Abstract: Field-deployable spatial positioning or measurement systems are provided for improved versatility, reliability and performance. The spatial positioning or measurement systems use rotating laser fans or beams for positioning and measuring and include a system integrated field-deployable length standard that uses a reelable tape with positional indents. The systems further include the use of labyrinth seals at interface volumes between rotating laser heads and transmitter assemblies to prevent ingress of contaminants and allow for elimination of the use of rotary seals. Further, new dynamic leveling techniques are provided to plumb positional laser transmitter systems. Still further, strobe beam configurations are provided for improved near/far performance and a vertical mode sensing scheme that allows switching to measuring tall structures when needed.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Philip L. Detweiler, James E. Denney, Nathan A. Corey, Jonathan A. Jackson, Frank B. Douglas
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Patent number: 6628373Abstract: The transmitter for projecting a beam of laser light includes a source of a beam of laser light, and a projection arrangement for directing the beam of laser light at a selected grade. The transmitter further includes a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of said transmitter, and a temperature correction circuit, including a look-up table, responsive to said temperature sensor, for adjusting said projection arrangement in dependence upon offset grade values that are stored in said look-up table for a plurality of transmitter temperature ranges. These offset grade values are separately determined on an empirical basis for each transmitter, such that temperature induced errors in the direction of the beam of laser light are compensated.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2002Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: Kent W. Kahle
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Publication number: 20030174305Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring device, comprising a signal generator and at least one signal receiver which is located at a measurable distance from said signal generator. The invention provides that the signal generator is configured for emitting at least two signal beams which scan a surface in relation to each other in a defined manner, while the signal receiver is configured for time-resolved reception of signal beams in order to enable the distance between the transmitter and the receiver to be determined from the time signature of the signal beams.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2003Publication date: September 18, 2003Inventors: Michael Kasper, Mirko Essling, Klaus-Werner Jorg
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Patent number: RE42880Abstract: A laser receiver detects a thin beam of laser light and distinguishes between the beam of laser light and an omni-directional pulse of light from a strobe by the use of an additional photo-detector. The device takes into account the possibility that the additional photo-detector could be illuminated simultaneously with the main photo-detectors at the end of the main photo-detectors closest to the additional photo-detector.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2009Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Trimble Navigation LtdInventor: James Thomas Zalusky
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Patent number: RE43744Abstract: A laser receiver detects a thin beam of laser light and distinguishes between the beam of laser light and an omni-directional pulse of light from a strobe by the use of an additional photo-detector. The device takes into account the possibility that the additional photo-detector could be illuminated simultaneously with the main photo-detectors at the end of the main photo-detectors closest to the additional photo-detector.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2011Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: James Thomas Zalusky