Trimble Navigation Limited Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160116282 | LASER LIGHT REFLECTIVE TARGET - A laser light reflective target that effectively brightens a laser light line being produced by a laser fan beam emitter. The target is placed on a jobsite floor and when two laser fan beams strike the reflective surface of the target, the laser beams appear much brighter than otherwise. The laser fan beams, when properly aimed at a point of interest, will intersect and produce an “X” shaped pattern of light on the target. The target can be used with a laser plumb beam pointer, which will aim its vertical beam downward directly at the specific point of interest if the target has been properly positioned. The laser plumb line pointer can additionally aim a second vertical beam upward, to produce a plumb line target point on the ceiling of an interior room that is being laid out. | 04-28-2016 |
20160116138 | TWO WAY OMNIDIRECTIONAL LENS - An omnidirectional lens is disclosed of the type which captures light from virtually all angles of incidence, and also emits light in all directions. Embodiments are specifically disclosed as a two-way lens that receives light beams from all directions of the compass and directs those light beams to a photosensor. The same two-way lens acts in a “beacon mode” to produce light beams from one or more LEDs, and to emit such light beams (again) in all directions of the compass. The emitted light beams can also be used to signal various functions as visible signals to users on a jobsite. | 04-28-2016 |
20160097849 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR INTERSECTION POSITIONING - A system and methods are provided for providing intersection positioning data. In one embodiment, a method includes detecting one or more objects by a device, wherein the one or more objects are detected relative to at least a portion of a roadway by an integrated radar sensor of the device, and tracking one or more detected objects by the device to determine tracking data, wherein tracking includes determining a number of detected objects, determining speed of the one or more detected objects and determining position of the one or more detected objects. The method may also include outputting the tracking data by the device. The system and methods may advantageously be employed for transmitting one or more of a collision warning, red light warnings, red light violation warnings and operation characteristics of objects during a traffic incident relative to intersection. | 04-07-2016 |
20160076228 | GUIDANCE SYSTEM FOR EARTHMOVING MACHINERY - Disclosed is a guidance system that helps an earthmoving machine operator to control exactly to what elevation to dig. The system includes an electronic sensing device and a display monitor. In one embodiment, the electronic sensing device includes a distance measuring sensor (LDM), an elevation detecting sensor, an orientation sensor, and a steering mechanism for the LDM. The sensing device is mounted to an earthmoving machine, and sends signals to the display showing the machine operator where to move the digging tool for digging to the desired elevation. The various sensors in the sensing device are calibrated at the factory, so the sensing device can be mounted to an earthmoving machine and then be immediately used by that machine without needing any calibration that involves the machine itself, which is a huge advantage for the equipment operator. The measurements are made via non-contact sensors, thereby preserving the jobsite surface. | 03-17-2016 |
20160054114 | ALL-IN-ONE INTEGRATED SENSING DEVICE FOR MACHINE CONTROL - An integrated sensing device with a suite of sensors assists construction machine operators in finding the correct level to dig a ditch/trench. The sensing device includes a gravity sensor to determine angles, a laser distance meter (LDM), and a laser receiver for detecting a known jobsite elevation. The sensing device is mounted to the dipper stick of an excavator; the gravity sensor detects the angle of the stick, and the laser receiver detects a laser plane of light that represents a known jobsite elevation. The LDM is aimed at another member of the machine that moves in a predetermined path as the bucket is rotated, to and the distance between the LDM and the target member is used to calculate the vertical elevation of the working tool edge. A display graphically shows the operator the proper dig depth and the present position of the working tool edge. | 02-25-2016 |
20150379702 | Active Imaging Systems for Plant Growth Monitoring - Active imaging systems for plant growth monitoring acquire images in which each pixel represents an absolute NDVI value obtained with active illumination. | 12-31-2015 |
20150371185 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING A CARGO TRANSACTION - Devices, systems, and methods for managing a cargo transaction are disclosed. By transmitting and integrating consignment data and real-time cargo status data including data collected from a GPS-enabled monitoring device to a visual cargo server, a visual cargo data is produced. The visual cargo data is contextualized by integrating with contextual data obtained from one or more contextual servers. | 12-24-2015 |
20150346728 | Implement Guidance - Efficient towed implement guidance to a desired path is achieved by guiding a towing vehicle toward a path on the opposite side of a desired path, then guiding the vehicle back to the desired path. Efficient forward implement guidance to a desired path is achieved by guiding a pushing vehicle along a tractrix. A vehicle leaves a straight line along a tractrix to keep a rear implement on the line as long as possible. | 12-03-2015 |
20150342110 | Implement guidance - Efficient towed implement guidance to a desired path is achieved by guiding a towing vehicle toward a path on the opposite side of a desired path, then guiding the vehicle back to the desired path. Efficient forward implement guidance to a desired path is achieved by guiding a pushing vehicle along a tractrix. A vehicle leaves a straight line along a tractrix to keep a rear implement on the line as long as possible. | 12-03-2015 |
20150339322 | CONSTRUCTION DRAWING EVALUATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - The invention provides the ability to count symbols within drawings in an automated fashion using a computer processor. This may be accomplished by identifying a particular symbol (representing a drawing part) and then permitting the computer to search for the identified symbol in the drawing. Following the initial search, a secondary search may be performed to increase the accuracy of an initial automated count, and obtaining refined searches results representing similar parts (represented by the same symbol) but being a part type as indicated by an identifier associated with the initial symbol. | 11-26-2015 |
20150338520 | MULTIPLE CONTENT MESSAGE BASE-ROVER ARCHITECTURE - A multiple content message (MCM) base apparatus configured to generate a composite base data stream is proposed. A multiple content message (MCM) rover apparatus configured to generate a set of fast frequency baseline data is proposed. | 11-26-2015 |
20150338305 | MONITORING A RESPONSE OF A BRIDGE BASED ON A POSITION OF A VEHICLE CROSSING THE BRIDGE - A method for performing a dynamic load test on a bridge includes providing a vehicle with an imaging device coupled to the vehicle and moving the vehicle across the bridge. While moving the vehicle across the bridge, a series of images is obtained using the imaging device. A position of the vehicle on the bridge is determined as a function of time using the series of images, and a response of the bridge is determined as a function of time as the vehicle crosses the bridge. The position of the vehicle on the bridge is associated with the response of the bridge. | 11-26-2015 |
20150332500 | Handheld GIS data collection device target augmentation - Target augmentation makes GIS data collection devices more intuitive and useful for GIS workers, and reduces GIS data collection errors. | 11-19-2015 |
20150312426 | INTEGRATED IMAGING AND RFID SYSTEM FOR VIRTUAL 3D SCENE CONSTRUCTION - Information is collected by acquiring imaging data of a plurality of objects using an imaging tool; creating a three-dimensional representation of the plurality of objects based on the imaging data; and extracting RFID data stored in an RFID tag using an RFID reader. The RFID tag has a reference to a three-dimensional model. The three-dimensional model is created before acquiring the imaging data of the plurality of objects. And the three-dimensional model is a representation of at least one object of the plurality of objects. | 10-29-2015 |
20150301190 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus - Methods and apparatus are presented for determining a position of a GNSS rover antenna from observations collected at the antenna over multiple epochs from satellite signals of multiple GNSS, wherein the observation data of each GNSS has a distinct data format. The observation data of each GNSS are presented in a generic GNSS data format, which differs from the distinct data format of the GNSS, to obtain a set of generic data. A set of difference data is prepared representing differences between the converted observation data and the generic data. When at least four satellites are tracked, the generic data of the tracked satellites of multiple GNSS are used to compute a standalone antenna position. When at least five satellites are tracked, the generic data of the tracked satellites of multiple GNSS are used to compute a real-time kinematic antenna position. | 10-22-2015 |
20150298731 | Rudder-Assisted Steering For Self-Propelled Drainage Equipment - Novel tools and techniques for performing steering operations for a tracked vehicle with a dragged implement using a control system that uses a combination of differential steering and rudder steering based on one or more operating conditions of the vehicle. | 10-22-2015 |
20150287305 | INTELLIGENT CONTAINER - An intelligent container apparatus is provided. The intelligent container apparatus comprises a container further comprising a plurality of 3-D cells and an external electronic lock. Each 3-D cell is assigned to store at least one asset including an Asset/ID tag, and at least one asset position sensor. The external electronic lock further comprises: a reader gate; a timing device; a tech/ID authentication system; and a processor. The reader gate is configured to read an Asset/ID tag, configured to read a technician tech/ID tag, configured to assign a checked_in/checked_out status to at least one asset having an Asset/ID tag, and configured to associate the tech/ID of the latest technician who checked_in/checked_out the asset having the Asset/ID tag. | 10-08-2015 |
20150278719 | INTELLIGENT TOOL FOR COLLECTING AND MANAGING DATA DURING MANUAL HARVESTING OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES - An apparatus for collecting and managing data during an agricultural manual operation is provided. The agricultural manual operation includes harvesting, planting roots, cutting flowers, and pruning and thinning fruit trees or vegetables. The apparatus comprises: an intelligent tool configured to log an event including an agricultural manual operation when a picker succeeds in picking at least one harvested product by using the intelligent tool, or planting event when a worker succeeds in planting at least one product, or cutting flowers event when a worker succeeds in cutting at least one flower product, or pruning and thinning event when a worker succeeds in thinning fruit trees. The apparatus further comprises a means for collecting a set of data relevant to at least one manually picking event, or manually planting event, or manually cutting event, or manual pruning or thinning event. | 10-01-2015 |
20150274157 | Blended Position Solutions - Novel tools and techniques for determining a blended position solution for a vehicle, using data from multiple positioning devices, some of which can be external to the vehicle. Some techniques allow a control system of a vehicle to transition from receiving position data from one positioning device to receiving data from another device without ceasing operation and/or while limiting any resulting discontinuity the position solution (and any resulting work performed by the vehicle) to within acceptable tolerances. | 10-01-2015 |
20150198953 | Path planning autopilot - A path planning autopilot guides vehicles efficiently even when they are far from a desired path. | 07-16-2015 |
20150161872 | WORKSITE PROXIMITY WARNING - Systems and methods for warning of proximity in a worksite are disclosed. A second transceiver is detected at a first transceiver, wherein the first transceiver is a mobile wearable device, and wherein the first transceiver and the second transceiver are located at a worksite. An ad-hoc network is established, at the first transceiver, between the first transceiver and the second transceiver. A distance is calculated, at the first transceiver, in three dimensions between the first transceiver and the second transceiver based on the detecting the second transceiver. A first safety envelope is defined, at the first transceiver, about the first transceiver and a second safety envelope about the second transceiver. An alarm is issued, at the first transceiver, when the first safety envelope comes in contact with the second safety envelope. | 06-11-2015 |
20150160009 | LASER RECEIVER USING A SMART DEVICE - A smart device is disclosed which contains a digital camera with an active electronic viewscreen that displays the detected image, in which the camera can sense laser light beams. The smart device has the capability receiving and executing an application program that allows the camera to be used as a grade elevation detector, in which the camera can sense a laser light beam that effectively forms a plane of laser light which defines an “on-grade” elevation for a jobsite. The user can determine this on-grade elevation by running the APP and viewing the display screen to find the (rotating or static) laser beam. An automated APP system can capture the on-grade elevation using a sequence of images that include a grade rod measurement paired with laser beam intensity detection images. | 06-11-2015 |
20150160000 | AUTOMATED LAYOUT AND POINT TRANSFER SYSTEM - A two-dimension layout system identifies points and their coordinates, and transfers identified points on a solid surface to other surfaces in a vertical direction. Two leveling laser light transmitters are used with a remote unit to control certain functions. The laser transmitters rotate about the azimuth, and emit vertical (plumb) laser planes. After being set up using benchmark points, the projected lines of the laser planes will intersect on the floor of a jobsite at any point of interest in a virtual floor plan, under control of a user with the remote unit. An “active target” can be used to more automatically create benchmarks. A laser distance meter can be installed on base units to automatically scan a room or a wall to determine certain key features. | 06-11-2015 |
20150153444 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR DATA POINT DETECTION AND SPATIAL MODELING - A device and methods are provided for detecting data points using an integrated radar sensor. In one embodiment, a method includes determining position of a device, detecting data points by an integrated radar sensor of the device, wherein the data points are determined for one or more points in space associated with one or more objects, and generating a spatial model of the one or more objects based on the detected data points. The device and methods may advantageously be employed for one or more of mapping, modeling, planning, machine control, navigation and object tracking. | 06-04-2015 |
20150130928 | POINT-TO-POINT MEASUREMENTS USING A HANDHELD DEVICE - A method for performing point-to-point measurements includes (i) determining a distance to a first point and obtaining an image at a first pose, and (ii) determining a distance to a second point and obtaining an image at a second pose. The images have an overlapping portion. A change in pose between the first pose and the second pose is determined using observed changes between common features in the overlapping portion of the images and a scale associated with the images. A distance between the first point and the second point is determined based on the first distance, the second distance, and the change in pose between the first pose and the second pose. | 05-14-2015 |
20150123770 | LOCATION INFORMATION WITHIN AN AREA DEFINED BY A GRID OF RADIO-FREQUENCY TAG CIRCUITS - A system for determining a location within an area defined by a grid of radio-frequency (RF) tag circuits includes RF exciters that are configured to emit unmodulated RF energy. The grid of the RF tag circuits are configured to receive the unmodulated RF energy from one or more of the RF exciters and to emit modulated RF energy. Each RF tag circuit may store information associated with a location of the RF tag circuit within the area and the modulated RF energy emitted from each RF tag circuit may carry the information. | 05-07-2015 |
20150116330 | Crop yield data adjustments - Yield monitors on harvesters engaged in multi-harvester crop harvesting are often calibrated inconsistently. Systems and methods for manually or automatically adjusting multi-harvester yield data are presented. | 04-30-2015 |
20150097828 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR 3D MODELING USING FEATURE DETECTION - A method includes providing a processor, obtaining an image of a scene including one or more objects, and presenting, using the processor, the image of the scene to a user. The method also includes receiving a geometry type associated with one of the one or more objects, receiving a set of inputs from the user related to the one of the one or more objects, and determining, using the processor, a centerline of the one of the one or more objects. The method further includes measuring, using the processor and inputs from the user, two or more coordinate positions along the centerline, receiving a dimension associated with the one of the one or more objects, and creating, using the processor, a 3D solid model using the geometry type, the dimension, the set of inputs, and the two or more coordinate positions. | 04-09-2015 |
20150063702 | Video alignment system - A video alignment system is described in which the location of a modulated spot in a video scene is estimated with correlation techniques including tracking multiple camera phase shift candidates and normalizing correlation sums with a voting system. | 03-05-2015 |
20150053487 | Vehicle weight sensor - A vehicle weight sensor is based on wheel-rim stress measurement. | 02-26-2015 |
20140347168 | RFID TAG DISTANCE MEASURER - A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag distance measuring system and method is disclosed. One example includes a first replica path that receives a signal that is simultaneously transmitted to an RFID tag. The first replica path includes a plurality of taps at known distances along the first replica path. Each of the plurality of taps has a first tap input coupled with the first replica path. In addition, an RFID signal receiver receives a return signal from the RFID tag and provides the return signal along a measurement input, wherein each of the plurality of taps have a second tap input coupled with the measurement path. A distance determiner detects at least the first of the plurality of taps to have an output and determine a distance measurement to the RFID tag based thereon. | 11-27-2014 |
20140316837 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGEMENT - A method of construction project management is disclosed. In one embodiment, parameters of a construction project design are provided to an asset at a construction site. Geospatial information is then collected by the asset while the asset is implementing parameters of the construction project design at the construction site. The geospatial information is provided to a construction management computing system in real-time. The construction management computing system is remote from the asset. Progress on the construction site design is then dynamically updated in real-time by the construction management computing system based on the geospatial information to create a real-time, as constructed model of the construction project. | 10-23-2014 |
20140299663 | SMART STORAGE SYSTEM - A system for identifying different types of products on a display hanger and determining a quantity of each of the different types of products includes a plurality of electrically conductive segments coupled to the display hanger, an electrically conductive rail coupled to the display hanger, and a sensor device electrically coupled to each of the plurality of electrically conductive segments and to the electrically conductive rail. The sensor device is configured to identify the different types of products on the display hanger and to determine the quantity of each of the different types of products based on a unique electrical signature associated with each of the different types of products. | 10-09-2014 |
20140292573 | METHODS FOR GENERATING ACCURACY INFORMATION ON AN IONOSPHERE MODEL FOR SATELLITE NAVIGATION APPLICATIONS - Accuracy information for an ionosphere model is generated. Phase residual information of a parameter estimation procedure is obtained and coordinates of pierce points are computed on a sphere around the earth. The coordinates indicate where signals pierce the sphere. Phase residual information is mapped for each pierce point. A grid of equidistant points is put on the sphere and the pierce points are identified. For each selected grid point, vertical accuracy information is computed based on vertical residual information, and a scale factor is computed based on the vertical accuracy information. The accuracy information for the ionosphere model is generated based on the vertical accuracy information computed for the selected grid points and an overall scale factor computed based on computed scale factors. | 10-02-2014 |
20140285631 | Indoor navigation via multi-beam laser projection - An indoor navigation system is based on a multi-beam laser projector, a set of calibrated cameras, and a processor that uses knowledge of the projector design and data on laser spot locations observed by the cameras to solve the space resection problem to find the location and orientation of the projector. | 09-25-2014 |
20140285630 | Indoor navigation via multi beam laser projection - An indoor navigation system is based on a multi-beam laser projector, a set of calibrated cameras, and a processor that uses knowledge of the projector design and data on laser spot locations observed by the cameras to solve the space resection problem to find the location and orientation of the projector. | 09-25-2014 |
20140277728 | METHOD OF DETERMINING THE ORIENTATION OF A MACHINE - A method of determining the orientation of a robotic machine at a worksite contemplates providing a target on the machine, moving the target to a first position on said machine, determining the location of the first position in the worksite, moving the target to a second position on said machine, and determining location of the second position in the worksite. The first and second positions are known with respect to the machine. Finally, a vector between the first and second locations defines the orientation of the machine with respect to the worksite. The target may be moved to additional positions on the machine. | 09-18-2014 |
20140268064 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROJECTION OF BIM INFORMATION - A system for projecting an image, including layout information, on a surface in a building under construction has a projector mounted on a moveable support for supporting a worker at a work position in the building. The projector projects an image on a surface above the moveable support in response to an image signal defining the image to be projected. The image indicates the location of connectors, anchors, and holes to be affixed to, or cut through, the surface. A system determines the two dimensional position of the projector in the building, and a distance measuring system for determines the distance from the projector to said surface. A processor, responsive to a memory having stored building plan images, provides an image signal to the projector adjusted for the two dimensional location of the projector and for the distance from the projector to the surface. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267936 | METHOD FOR PROJECTING AN IMAGE - A method of projecting an image onto a viewing surface uses scanning projector, such as a laser-beam-steering pico projector, which scans a laser beam across the viewing surface. Each pixel area on the viewing surface which is included within images defined by a high intensity display digital video data, and each pixel area on the viewing surface which is included within images defined by a low intensity display digital video data are scanned. The projector beam illuminates each pixel area on the viewing surface which is included within images defined by the high intensity display digital video data for a greater period of time than is spent illuminating each pixel area on the viewing surface which is included within images defined by other digital video data. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267700 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMAGE-BASED POSITIONING - Method and apparatus are provided for image based positioning comprising capturing a first image with an image capturing device. Wherein said first image includes at least one object. Moving the platform and capturing a second image with the image capturing device. The second image including the at least one object. Capturing in the first image an image of a surface; capturing in the second image a second image of the surface. Processing the plurality of images of the object and the surface using a combined feature based process and surface tracking process to track the location of the surface. Finally, determining the location of the platform by processing the combined feature based process and surface based process. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267685 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POSITIONING A TOOL IN A WORK SPACE - A system for assisting an operator in positioning an operating element of any of a plurality of tools at a desired location at a worksite, includes a plurality of fixed position video imaging devices located at known positions at the worksite. Each of the imaging devices has a known field of view. A memory stores a digital image and dimensions of each of the tools, as well as the desired locations at the worksite for operating the tools. A processor is responsive to the video devices for determining the tool being viewed, and determining the position and orientation of the tool and the operating element of said tool. A radio transmitter transmits this to a receiver with the tool operator. | 09-18-2014 |
20140266875 | CRANE BOOM POINTING ANGLE DETERMINATION - Methods and systems are disclosed for determining a working arm point angle of the crane. A Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver antenna is disposed on a point along a boom assembly of the crane configured to pivot about a pivot point. A location of the pivot point is received. A working arm of the crane is rotated about the pivot point to point in a current direction. A current location of the GNSS receiver antenna is determined. A current working arm pointing angle relative to a reference direction for the current direction of the working arm is determined based on the current location of the GNSS receiver antenna and the location of the pivot point. | 09-18-2014 |
20140266778 | UTILITY METER REPORTING NETWORK - A utility meter reporting network is disclosed. In one embodiment, an end-point reporting device is configured to collect utility usage data and to convey the utility usage data to a gateway device via a first Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) radio communication link using a first ISM transceiver operable in the 902 MHz to 928 MHz range. The network further comprises a gateway device comprising a second ISM transceiver for receiving the utility usage data from the end point and a wireless transceiver which is configured to send the utility usage data via an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 compliant wireless communication link. The network further comprises a utility office which receives the utility usage data from said gateway device via said IEEE 802.11 compliant wireless communication link. | 09-18-2014 |
20140257906 | Workflow Management Method and System - Novel tools and techniques are described for managing workflow for projects, including, without limitation, cadastral survey projects. In one aspect, a method might comprise providing a workflow management schedule to a user over a network from a remote computer system. The remote computer system might compare one or more workflow items—including one or more of a task, a meeting, a project, a deadline, a time, a date, one or locations, or required data—on the workflow management schedule with workflow items on reference schedules, and identifying one or more necessary workflow items not included on the workflow management schedule, based on the comparison. The remote computer system might add the one or more necessary workflow items to the workflow management schedule. The remote computer system might additionally define, and send to the user, a scope of work associated with each necessary workflow item, based on reference scopes of work. | 09-11-2014 |
20140254865 | Image Identification Method and System - Novel tools and techniques are described for identifying objects and/or persons. In one aspect, a method might comprise obtaining a digital image of an object(s) with a digital image recording device. The digital image may be transmitted to a remote computer system, and compared to multiple preexisting digital images using an image comparison software application running thereon. A set of preexisting digital images matching the digital image of the object(s) may be identified, and a (best match) keyphrase associated with the preexisting digital images may be determined. The keyphrase may be returned to a user computer for user confirmation or rejection. In some embodiments, a point cloud may be generated for each object in the image, and fitted with available 3D models, so as to confirm the keyphrase. In some embodiments, the confirmed keyphrase may be sent to a user computer for implementation in a cadastral survey application. | 09-11-2014 |
20140253903 | STUD MAPPING AND LAYOUT METHOD - A method of establishing the location of a pair construction points for a stud in a building interior at a construction site and for determining the length of the stud needed to extend between the pair of construction points uses a robotic total station. The points are defined by x and y coordinates and anticipated z coordinates on upper and lower surfaces. The robotic total station establishes the points by directing a beam of laser light toward anticipated points and, through an iterative process, determining the actual location of the points on upper and lower surfaces that have the same x and y coordinates. | 09-11-2014 |
20140253294 | OPERATIONAL PARAMETERS BASED ON PROXIMITY - A method is disclosed for controlling operational parameters of a wireless reader device and/or one or more other devices based on proximity of the wireless reader device to a wireless electronic circuit. At a first location, the wireless reader device and/or the one or more other devices are controlled based on a first operational parameter. At a second location, interrogation signals are transmitted from the wireless reader device, and response signals are received at the wireless reader device. The response signals are transmitted from the wireless electronic circuit in response to receiving the interrogation signals from the wireless reader device. The response signals convey a control parameter to the wireless reader device that is associated with a second operational parameter. Thereafter, the wireless reader device and/or the one or more other devices are controlled based on the second operational parameter. | 09-11-2014 |
20140230917 | MOISTURE SENSING WATERING SYSTEM - A moisture sensing water system comprising at least one moisture sensor coupled with at least one wheel coupled with a water conveyance system, the at least one moisture sensor pierces the ground during each rotation of the at least one wheel and performs a moisture sensing. A moisture information converter receives the moisture sensing information and converts the moisture sensing information into a signal indicative of the moisture content of the ground. A moisture content provider provides the signal indicative of the moisture content of the ground in a user accessible format to automatically control the amount of water disseminated by the moisture sensing watering system. | 08-21-2014 |
20140209676 | KINEMATIC ASSET MANAGEMENT - A system for managing kinematic assets is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system comprises an electronic identification device associated with an asset. The system further comprises a container comprising a reader disposed within the container for receiving a unique identification of the identification device. The container further comprises a reader node for maintaining an inventory record comprising the asset and for generating a report when the asset is not detected by said reader. The report further comprises a location of the container when said report is generated. The system further comprises a kinematic asset management platform comprising an asset registry for storing data conveyed by the report and a reports engine for generating a second report conveying the location of said container when the report is generated. | 07-31-2014 |
20140208870 | Sugar cane yield mapping - Sugar cane yield mapping improves the efficiency of sugar cane farming with benefits to both sugar producers and consumers. | 07-31-2014 |
20140184443 | FILTERING OUT A JAMMER SIGNAL - A low noise amplifier (LNA) assembly comprising a filter circuit for receiving signals from a Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) band and a Radio Navigation Satellite Service (RNSS) band; and an alternative filter circuit configured to filter out a jammer signal. | 07-03-2014 |
20140172149 | SYSTEM FOR POSITIONING A TOOL IN A WORK SPACE - A system for assisting in the use by an operator of the operating element of a tool at desired locations at a worksite, includes a stationary control and a position sensor secured to the tool. The stationary control is located at the worksite, and has data stored therein specifying one or more desired locations for operation of the operating element of the tool at the worksite. A position sensor is mounted on the tool. The position sensor determines the position of the operating element of the tool. The position sensor includes a communication device for communicating with said stationary control, a sensor for determining its relative position with respect to said stationary control, and a display for providing indications to the user of the tool of the desired location for the operating element of the tool and of the actual location of the operating element of the tool. | 06-19-2014 |
20140156219 | DETERMINING TILT ANGLE AND TILT DIRECTION USING IMAGE PROCESSING - A method of determining a tilt angle and a tilt direction of a survey instrument includes capturing first images at a first location that include features from an environment around the survey instrument and capturing second images at a second location that include a portion of the features. A pose of the imaging device is determined at the second location using observed changes in location of a common portion of the features between the first images and the second images. The tilt angle and the tilt direction of the survey instrument at the second location are determined using the pose of the imaging device. | 06-05-2014 |
20140152528 | RUGGEDIZED ELECTRONIC ENCLOSURE FOR IN-GROUND INSTALLATION - A ruggedized electronic enclosure for in-ground installation is disclosed. In one embodiment, the ruggedized electronic enclosure comprises a top cover which is exposed above a top surface of the ground and a cylindrical base portion which is embedded within the ground. The top cover and the cylindrical base portion are configured to create a channel conveying an adhesive toward the center of the ruggedized enclosure when the top cover and the cylindrical base portion are coupled. | 06-05-2014 |
20140149416 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ASSET MANAGEMENT - In a method for asset management, a transmission of information is received from a first reporting source about an asset and a transmission of information from is received from a second reporting source about the asset. The second reporting source uses a different means of transmission than the first reporting source. A database is populated with the information from the first reporting source and the information from the second reporting source such that information from the first reporting source and information from the second reporting source can be collected from the database. A computer system, accessing the database, generates an asset information report comprising at least a portion of information from the first reporting source and at least a portion of information from the second reporting source. | 05-29-2014 |
20140149004 | SENSOR UNIT SYSTEM - A mobile construction device sensor unit comprises a point-to-point radio ranging system and a position determining component. The point-to-point radio ranging system is configured to couple with a mobile construction device. The position determining component is coupled with the point-to-point radio ranging system and is configured for determining a position of the sensor unit in at least two dimensions based on communications between the point-to-point radio ranging system and a plurality of tags respectively located at a plurality of knowable locations within an operating environment of the mobile construction device. | 05-29-2014 |
20140146173 | Integrated Aerial Photogrammetry Surveys - Novel tools and techniques for generating survey data about a survey site. Aerial photography of at least part of the survey site can be analyzed using photogrammetric techniques. In some cases, an unmanned aerial system can be used to collect site imagery. The use of a UAS can reduce the fiscal and chronological cost of a survey, compared to the use of other types aerial imagery and/or conventional terrestrial surveying techniques used alone. | 05-29-2014 |
20140144981 | INTEGRATED IMAGING AND RFID SYSTEM FOR VIRTUAL 3D SCENE CONSTRUCTION - A method includes acquiring imaging data of a scene using an imaging tool. The method also includes processing the imaging data to create a three-dimensional representation of the scene and extracting radio frequency identification (RFID) data stored in an RFID tag. The method further includes using the RFID data for placing an object in the scene that is not yet part of the scene. | 05-29-2014 |
20140139319 | Remotely Readable Input Forms - A system for obtaining electronic data from a plurality of forms includes a plurality of electronic sensors, a plurality of wireless interface circuits, and at least one reader configured to communicate with the wireless interface circuits to obtain the electronic data from the plurality of forms. At least one electronic sensor may be coupled to each form, and each electronic sensor may be configured to sense at least a first state and a second state based on manipulation of the form to which the electronic sensor is coupled. At least one of the wireless interface circuits may be coupled to each form and to the at least one electronic sensor coupled to the form. For each form the electronic data may include at least one state of the at least one electronic sensor coupled to the form. | 05-22-2014 |
20140136012 | VEHICLE ASSOCIATION WITH DRIVER USING MOBILE TECHNOLOGIES - An improved method for asset management is described. The method includes receiving information from a remote reporting device in close proximity to an asset, the information including a first unique identifier associated with the asset and a second unique identifier associated with a user of the asset. The method further includes associating the asset with the user based on the information. Additionally, the method includes monitoring use of the asset and maintaining a record of the use by the user based on the information. | 05-15-2014 |
20140125651 | 3D MAPPING OF A SURVEYED ENVIRONMENT - A real time 3D survey site modeler is disclosed. One embodiment includes a survey data collector to collect survey data for a location and obtain information for each object that is surveyed. In addition, a 3D model creator receives the collected survey data and creates a 3D model of the world being surveyed in real time. | 05-08-2014 |
20140122143 | OPTIMIZING RESOURCE ASSIGNMENT - A system is described that has a first engine configured to determine an assignment of a resource to a task. The assignment is based on a schedule representation comprising at least resource profile data and task profile data. The resource profile data represents a resource profile associated with the resource and the task profile data represents a task profile associated with the task. The system also has a data store configured to store a set of rules, the set of rules comprising data indicative of one or more functions to be applied to one or more input data sources to output at least one variable value for the schedule representation. This then allows a second engine coupled to the data store to be configured to update the schedule representation in accordance with the set of rules. | 05-01-2014 |
20140107957 | Wide-area agricultural monitoring and prediction - Ground-based measurements of agricultural metrics such as NDVI are used to calibrate wide-area aerial measurements of the same metrics. Calibrated wide-area data may then be used as an input to a field prescription processor. | 04-17-2014 |
20140104602 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MEASURING ANGLES BASED ON 360 DEGREE IMAGES - A method of measuring an angle includes orienting a measurement device at a reference position characterized by a reference angle. A first panoramic image defined by a predetermined range of elevation angles is acquired where the first panoramic image includes an object. A first bearing of the object in relation to the reference angle is determined and the measurement device is rotated to a measurement position characterized by a measurement angle. A second panoramic image defined by the predetermined range of elevation angles is acquired where the second panoramic image includes the object. A second bearing of the object in relation to the reference angle is determined. The measurement angle is computed as a function of the first bearing and the second bearing. | 04-17-2014 |
20140095010 | CROP FEELER SYSTEM AND METHOD - In some embodiments, a crop feeler system automatically executes a navigational task based on a proximity of a vehicle to an obstacle. The crop feeler system includes a hub attached to the vehicle. Inside the hub are two oscillating circuits each having an oscillating frequency. A member is coupled to the hub. Two inductive elements are positioned within the member so that, when the obstacle comes into contact with the member, at least one of the inductive elements moves closer to at least one of the oscillating circuits and alters the oscillating frequency of that oscillating circuit. A navigation sensor measures the oscillating frequency of the oscillating circuit, identifies a navigational task using the oscillating frequency of the oscillating circuit, and executes the navigational task. | 04-03-2014 |
20140092093 | SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING A DISPLAY - A system and device for controlling a display are disclosed. Data is examined, which correspond to an image to be shown with the display. Upon determining that said data comprise a critical item corresponding to an element of the image, the critical item is shown with an uncluttered view. Non-critical items corresponding to elements of the image are attempted to be shown as well, such that the critical item is not obscured and the image remains uncluttered. | 04-03-2014 |
20140089466 | METHOD FOR PROVIDING DATA TO A USER - An example method for providing a user with service technical data is provided. A server stores original service technical data and annotated data in a server where the annotated data is associated with the original service technical data. The server determines an access level of the user such where the access level of the user determines what service technical data may be sent. A portion of the service technical data is sent from the server to a device associated with the user, based at least in part on the access level of the user. The server also receives additional annotated data generated by the user where the additional annotated data is associated with the original service technical data. | 03-27-2014 |
20140085139 | GLOBAL NAVIGATION SATELLITE SYSTEMS (GNSS) POSITIONING USING PRECISE SATELLITE DATA - Method to estimate parameters derived at least from GNSS signals useful to determine a position, including obtaining at least one GNSS signal observed at a GNSS receiver from each of a plurality of GNSS satellites; receiving global correction information useful to correct at least the obtained GNSS signals from a first set of GNSS satellites, wherein the global correction information includes correction information which is independent from the position to be determined; receiving local correction information useful to correct at least the obtained GNSS signals from a second set of GNSS satellites, wherein the local correction information includes correction information which is dependent on the position to be determined; processing the obtained GNSS signals from the first set of GNSS satellites by using the global correction information; and processing the obtained GNSS signals from the second set of GNSS satellites by using the local correction information. | 03-27-2014 |
20140081571 | WORKFLOW IMPROVEMENTS FOR STAKEOUT - A navigational apparatus includes a visual display, first and second imaging devices, and one or more processors. The first imaging device has an optical axis extending in a first direction and is configured to obtain first image data. The second imaging device has an optical axis extending in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction and is configured to obtain second image data. When the visual display is displaying first image data, the one or more processors are configured to superimpose a first navigational graphic on the visual display overlaid on a portion of the first image data associated with the point of interest. When the visual display is displaying second image data, the one or more processors are configured to superimpose a second navigational graphic on the visual display overlaid on a portion of the second image data associated with the point of interest. | 03-20-2014 |
20140081538 | LIFTING DEVICE EFFICIENT LOAD DELIVERY, LOAD MONITORING, COLLISION AVOIDANCE, AND LOAD HAZARD AVOIDANCE - A lifting device sensor unit comprising a housing, a load monitor, and a wireless transceiver. The housing is configured to removably couple about a load line of a lifting device. The load monitor is coupled with the housing and configured for monitoring a load coupled with the load line, including monitoring a load position and a load orientation of the load. The wireless is transceiver coupled with the housing and configured for wirelessly providing information including the load position and the load orientation to a display unit located apart from the sensor unit. | 03-20-2014 |
20140074340 | Agricultural autopilot steering compensation - Agricultural autopilot steering compensation provides improved steering control when steerable wheels lose traction and/or in tight turns. | 03-13-2014 |
20140062776 | Ambiguity Windowing in Communications Among Global Navigation System Satellite Receivers - A method of communicating corrections for information related to satellite signals among global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receivers is described. The method includes at a first GNSS device determining a component of position of a satellite. The component is then divided by a first value to thereby obtain an integer value and a remainder value, and the only the remainder value is transmitted from the first GNSS device to the second GNSS device. Knowing the first value, the second GNSS device calculates the component of position. | 03-06-2014 |
20140044341 | USING GRAVITY MEASUREMENTS WITHIN A PHOTOGRAMMETRIC ADJUSTMENT - A method for determining a location of a target includes, at a first location, determining first location coordinates of a measuring device using one or more GNSS signals, determining a first gravitational direction, and capturing a first image using the camera. The method also includes, at a second location, determining second location coordinates of the measuring device, and capturing a second image. The method further includes determining a plurality of correspondence points between the first and second images, determining a first plurality of image coordinates for the plurality of correspondence points in the first image, determining a second plurality of image coordinates for the plurality of correspondence points in the second image, and determining the location of the target using at least the first plurality of image coordinates, the second plurality of image coordinates, and the first gravitational direction. | 02-13-2014 |
20140036066 | Methods and Apparatus for Performing Angular Measurements - A method of determining an azimuth and elevation of a point in an image is provided. The method comprises positioning an imaging device at a first position and acquiring a first image. The method also comprises rotating the imaging device and acquiring a second image at the first position. The first image includes the point, and a portion of the first image overlaps a portion of the second image. The method also includes determining correspondences between features in overlapping portions of the images, determining a first transformation between coordinates of the first image and coordinates of the second image based on the correspondences, and determining a second transformation between the coordinates of the second image and a local coordinate frame. The method also includes computing the azimuth and elevation of the point based on the first transformation and the second transformation. | 02-06-2014 |
20140035726 | ENTITY TRACKING - A method for tracking an entity is disclosed. In one embodiment, a plurality of messages conveying an identification of an entity are received using a wireless identification component. A geographic location of the wireless identification component is determined by a position determining component wherein the geographic location describes a respective geographic location of the wireless identification component when each of the plurality of messages is received. A geographic position of the entity is determined based upon a known spatial relationship between the position determining component and the wireless identification component. | 02-06-2014 |
20140028497 | GLOBAL NAVIGATION SATELLITE ANTENNA SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A method for reducing multipath when determining a location of a stationary or near stationary position, includes receiving a signal from an antenna moving continuously with respect to the stationary or near stationary position, the signal including a multipath component, processing the received signal including the multipath component, wherein multipath error in the received signal is reduced during the processing and determining a location of the stationary or near stationary position based on the processed received signal with the multipath error reduced. | 01-30-2014 |
20140022539 | USE OF A SKY POLARIZATION SENSOR FOR ABSOLUTE ORIENTATION DETERMINATION IN POSITION DETERMINING SYSTEMS - A method for determining absolute orientation of a platform is disclosed. In one embodiment, a first sky polarization data set for a first time Ti is measured using a sky polarization sensor disposed on a platform. A second sky polarization data set is obtained at a second time Tj. A difference in orientation between the first sky polarization data set and the second sky polarization data set is determined using an orientation determiner. The difference in orientation is provided as at least one orientation parameter for the platform at time Tj. The at least one orientation parameter is used to provide a direction relative to a reference point on the platform. | 01-23-2014 |
20140015712 | GNSS Signal Processing with Ionospheric Bridging for Reconvergence - Methods and apparatus provide for positioning of a rover antenna from GNSS data derived from multi-frequency signals and correction data derived from a network of reference stations. Rover antenna position and multi-frequency ambiguities are estimated at each epoch. An ionospheric filter models variation in ionospheric bias per satellite. A set of ionospheric carrier-phase ambiguities is estimated at least when the multi-frequency ambiguities have attained a predetermined precision. The estimated ionospheric carrier-phase ambiguities are cached. After detecting interruption of signal at the rover antenna and determining reacquisition of signals at the rover antenna, an ionospheric bias per satellite over an interruption interval is predicted. For each satellite, a cached ionospheric carrier-phase ambiguity is combined with a predicted ionospheric bias to obtain a post-interruption ionospheric ambiguity estimate. The post-interruption ionospheric ambiguity estimates are used to aid estimation of rover antenna position after signal reacquisition. | 01-16-2014 |
20140002941 | Overvoltage protection circuit with self biased latch | 01-02-2014 |
20140002300 | GNSS Signal Processing with Known Position for Reconvergence | 01-02-2014 |
20140002299 | COMBINED CYCLE SLIP INDICATORS FOR REGIONALLY AUGMENTED GNSS | 01-02-2014 |
20130345895 | LANE CHANGE MONITORING - A method for detecting a lane change by a moving vehicle is disclosed. In one embodiment, it is detected that a first heading of a moving vehicle has met a parameter defining a stable heading. It is then detected that a second heading of the moving vehicle has subsequently met a parameter defining an unstable heading. It is then detected that a third heading of the moving vehicle has subsequently met a parameter defining a stable heading within a pre-determined time parameter and that the third heading equals the first heading within a pre-defined margin. An indication is then generated that the moving vehicle has performed a lane change. | 12-26-2013 |
20130335266 | GNSS Signal Processing with Delta Phase for Incorrect Starting Position - Methods and apparatus for processing of GNSS signals are presented. These include GNSS processing with predicted precise clocks, GNSS processing with mixed-quality data, GNSS processing with time-sequence maintenance, GNSS processing with reduction of position jumps in low-latency solutions, GNSS processing with position blending to bridge reference station changes, and GNSS processing with delta-phase correction for incorrect starting position. | 12-19-2013 |
20130313315 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SURVEYING USING RFID DEVICES - A method of surveying may include determining a location of a surveying tool, determining a location of a position of interest, detecting an RFID tag associated with the position of interest, and decoding information stored in the RFID tag. The information stored in the RFID tag may include a reference to information stored remote from the RFID tag. | 11-28-2013 |
20130311050 | Agricultural Rate Management - Agricultural rate adjustments performed by autopilots or farm information displays help eliminate guesswork and improve farm efficiency. | 11-21-2013 |
20130308141 | SURVEYING INSTRUMENT AND METHOD FOR DETECTING A LASER BEAM - The present disclosure relates to a surveying system including a surveying instrument and method for detecting light of fan shaped laser beam. The surveying instrument includes a detector for detecting light of the fan shaped laser beam rotating around a propagation axis with a direction of rotation and having two detector elements arranged in a known spatial relation for outputting a detection signal when irradiated. A position determining unit is used to obtain a first set of detection signals from the detector elements, to determine a first time relation between the detection signals of the first set, and to determine a positional relation between the detector and the propagation axis based on the first time relation. | 11-21-2013 |
20130290062 | PAVING COORDINATION METHOD AND SYSTEM - A system for implementing a method of coordinating activities associated with paving a roadway with a paver which receives batches of paving material transported to it by transport trucks from a paving material plant where the batches of paving material are prepared, includes computer systems on the paver, on one or more transport trucks, at the paving material plant, and a server having communication links to the computer system on the paver, the computer system on one or more transport trucks, and the computer system at the paving material plant. The server communicates with the computer systems on the paver, on one or more trucks, and at the plant over communication links to provide coordinated operation of the paver, trucks and plant so that the paving material produced by the plant is delivered to the roadway and applied in a manner by the paver that is efficient. | 10-31-2013 |
20130276315 | LAYOUT EQUIPMENT AND LAYOUT METHOD - Layout equipment for locating a plurality of positions at a construction site, and a method of using the layout equipment, contemplate a laser target rod having an elongated rod body and including retroreflective material on the rod body. The retroreflective material extends substantially the entire length of the rod body, and has scale markings visible thereon. A self-leveling laser transmitter at a known position projects a beam of laser light horizontally, and receives laser light reflected from the laser target rod. A remote control device signals the user of the layout equipment when the rod has been placed at a selected one of the plurality of positions. The layout equipment may also be used to determine relative locations in a previously built structure. | 10-24-2013 |
20130271638 | IDENTIFYING PIXELS OF IMAGE DATA - A method for identifying one or more pixels of image data associated with a point in an image includes receiving an indication of a portion of the image as displayed on the display monitor that surrounds the point. The pixels of image data as displayed on the display monitor are identified that are located approximately at edges of the portion of the image. One or more inverse transformations are performed to transform the pixels of image data as displayed on the display monitor to pixels of image data as captured by an image sensor. A portion of image data as captured by the image sensor is identified that corresponds to a portion of the image that surrounds the point. The portion of the image data as captured by the image sensor is displayed on the display monitor without data transformation. | 10-17-2013 |
20130271563 | DISPLAYING ARRAYS OF IMAGE DATA - A method for displaying arrays of digital image data on a display monitor as a continuous image includes determining nonlinear corrections for each of the arrays of digital image data. Each nonlinear correction may be based in part on a location of the imaging device used to capture the array of digital image data relative to a location of the perspective center from which the array of digital image data will be displayed on the display monitor. The method also includes transforming each array of digital image data using the corresponding nonlinear correction. The method also includes displaying the arrays of corrected image data on the display monitor to produce a continuous display of the scene captured by the imaging device, where relative sizes and positions of objects in the scene are substantially reproduced in the display of the scene. | 10-17-2013 |
20130271499 | IDENTIFYING A POINT OF INTEREST FROM DIFFERENT STATIONS - A method for locating a point of interest in a plurality of images is provided where the plurality of images capture different views of a scene. At least portions of each of the views are displayed in separate windows on a display monitor. The method includes identifying the point of interest in a first view of the scene and identifying pixels of image data that correspond to the selected point on the display monitor. A line in each of the views is determined that extends along a ray that passes through the point of interest in the scene to pixels of an image sensor corresponding to the pixels of image data in the first view of the scene. The line is displayed in each of the views in which the line is visible. | 10-17-2013 |
20130271490 | DISPLAYING IMAGE DATA BASED ON PERSPECTIVE CENTER OF PRIMARY IMAGE - A method for displaying image data from a plurality of images on a display monitor, where at least some of the images are acquired from different locations, includes displaying the image data from the images on the display monitor. The image data may be displayed from a perspective center associated with the different locations from which the images are acquired. A primary image is determined based on a portion of the image data from the primary image that is displayed on the display monitor compared to portions of the image data from other images that are displayed on the display monitor. Thereafter, the image data on the display monitor is displayed from a perspective center of the primary image. A stacking order of the plurality of images is arranged so that the primary image is on top. | 10-17-2013 |
20130271318 | ADVANCED GLOBAL NAVIGATION SATELLITE SYSTEMS (GNSS) POSITIONING USING PRECISE SATELLITE INFORMATION - A method is provided for estimating parameters useful to determine the position of a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver or a change in the position thereof. The method includes the steps of: obtaining at least one GNSS signal received at the GNSS receiver from each of a plurality of GNSS satellites; obtaining, from at least one network node, precise satellite information on: (i) the orbit or position of at least one of the plurality of GNSS satellites, and (ii) a clock offset of at least one of the plurality of GNSS satellites; identifying, among the obtained GNSS signals, a subset of at least one GNSS signal possibly affected by a cycle slip, the identified subset being hereinafter referred to as cycle-slip affected subset; and estimating parameters useful to determine the position of the GNSS receiver or a change in the position of the GNSS receiver using at least some of the obtained GNSS signals which are not in the cycle-slip affected subset, and the precise satellite information. | 10-17-2013 |
20130268191 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING A CARGO TRANSACTION - Devices, systems, and methods for managing a cargo transaction are disclosed. By transmitting and integrating consignment data and real-time cargo status data including data collected from a GPS-enabled monitoring device to a visual cargo server, a visual cargo data is produced. The visual cargo data is contextualized by integrating with contextual data obtained from one or more contextual servers. | 10-10-2013 |
20130262046 | AREA-BASED OPEN PIT MINE DESIGNER - An area-based open pit mine designer is disclosed. One example includes an economic shell receiver module to receive an economic shell. In addition, a user input module receives a user parametric input denoting an open pit mine shape based on the economic shell. The open pit mine designer module automatically develops an open pit mine design based on the user parametric input. | 10-03-2013 |
20130262045 | OPEN PIT MINE DESIGNER - An open pit mine designer is disclosed. One example includes a metric receiver receives an economic shell metric including ore information and an open pit mine metric. In addition, a user input is provided to receive user modifiable criteria. The open pit mine designer combines the open pit mine metrics, the user modifiable criteria and a waste reduction criteria to develop an open pit mine design, wherein user modifiable information may be used to adjust the open pit mine design during the life of the open pit mine. | 10-03-2013 |
20130244694 | METHOD AND A SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING INFORMATION TO A LAND SURVEYING ROVER LOCATED IN AN AREA WITHOUT CELLULAR COVERAGE - In a method for requesting network-derived position data from a mobile geographic position aware receiver, a mobile geographic position aware receiver having a first IP address is communicatively coupled with a first port on a router. A wireless transceiver is communicatively coupled with a second port on the router. a wireless communication device is communicatively coupled with a third port on the router. A processor is communicatively coupled with the router; the processor for executing a communications access command sequence. The command sequence comprises: testing for a wireless network connectivity; contacting a source of position data if wireless network connectivity exists; and generating a data message to be sent via the wireless transceiver if the wireless network connectivity does not exist, the data message comprising an Internet Protocol (IP) address of the router, an approximate current location of the mobile geographic position aware receiver, and a request for correction data. | 09-19-2013 |
20130243250 | LOCATION OF IMAGE CAPTURE DEVICE AND OBJECT FEATURES IN A CAPTURED IMAGE - A method for matching a region on an object of interest with a geolocation in a coordinate system is disclosed. In one embodiment, an image of a region on an object of interest is captured on an image capture device. The image is processed to detect a located feature using a feature detection algorithm. Further processing of the located feature is performed to derive a first feature descriptor using a feature descriptor extraction algorithm. The feature descriptor is stored in a memory. A database of feature descriptors having geolocation information associated with the feature descriptors is searched for a match to the first feature descriptor. The geolocation information is then made available for access. | 09-19-2013 |
20130228620 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RFID-ASSISTED IMAGING - A method includes acquiring imaging data of a scene using an imaging tool. The method also includes extracting radio frequency identification (RFID) data stored in an RFID tag associated with the scene. The method further includes associating the RFID data with the imaging data. | 09-05-2013 |
20130220010 | Smart-phone bracket for car and truck navigation - Inertial navigation systems for wheeled vehicles with constrained motion degrees of freedom are described. Various parts of the navigation systems may be implemented in a smart-phone. | 08-29-2013 |
20130217439 | Cell phone NDVI sensor - Apparatus and techniques for measuring and managing plant growth with cell phones or similar devices are described. | 08-22-2013 |
20130204753 | EXTERNALLY AUGMENTED ASSET MANAGEMENT - A system for externally augmented asset management is disclosed. According to one embodiment, information from a first reporting source about an asset is received. In addition, information from a second reporting source about the asset is also received. Information from a third reporting source about at least one environmental condition is also received. A database is then populated with the information from the first reporting source, the information from the second reporting source and the third reporting source such that information from the first reporting source, the information from the second reporting source and the third reporting source can be collected or accessed from the database. | 08-08-2013 |
20130201189 | SYSTEMS FOR PARAMETRIC MODELING OF THREE DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS - A system for parametric modeling of a three-dimensional object has a processor running a software program operable to configure the object by defining a zone comprising a root of a tree hierarchy, the zone having a three-dimensional region defining an outer dimension of the object to be modeled; a part comprising a child of the zone, the part also having a component object to be modeled, wherein the component object is an element of the object; and a variable comprising a child of the part, wherein variable has data defining characteristics of the zone or part. A user interface can display a representation of the three-dimensional object. | 08-08-2013 |
20130197960 | SYSTEM FOR ADAPTIVE CONSTRUCTION SEQUENCING - A computer system for adaptive construction sequencing. In one embodiment, a scheduling component is used to access a schedule for completing a project is. A 3-dimensional (3-D) simulation component is used to generate a 3-D model of at least one component used in completing the project. The 3-D simulation component is used to generate a 3-D simulation showing the construction of the project in accordance with the schedule. A cost estimating component is used to generate a cost estimate of the cost of completing the project in accordance with the schedule. | 08-01-2013 |
20130195363 | IMAGE-BASED GEOREFERENCING - A computer-implemented method of providing georeferenced information regarding a location of capture of an image is provided. The method includes receiving a first image at an image-based georeferencing system, the first image comprising digital image information and identifying a cataloged second image that correlates to the first image. The method further includes automatically determining reference features common to both the second image and the first image, accessing geographic location information related to the common reference features, utilizing the geographic location information related to the common features to determine a georeferenced location of capture of the first image and providing the georeferenced location of capture for access by a user of the image-based georeferencing system. | 08-01-2013 |
20130195362 | IMAGE-BASED GEOREFERENCING - An image-based georeferencing system comprises an image receiver, an image identification processor, a reference feature determiner, and a feature locator. The image receiver is configured for receiving a first image for use in georeferencing. The image comprises digital image information. The system includes a communicative coupling to a georeferenced images database of images. The image identification processor is configured for identifying a second image from the georeferenced images database that correlates to the first image. The system includes a communicative coupling to a geographic location information system. The reference feature determiner is configured for determining a reference feature common to both the second image and the first image. The feature locator is configured for accessing the geographic information system to identify and obtain geographic location information related to the common reference feature. | 08-01-2013 |
20130191417 | LIMITING ACCESS TO ASSET MANAGEMENT INFORMATION - A system for limiting access to asset management information is disclosed. According to one embodiment, information is received from a first reporting source about an asset. Information from a second reporting source about the asset is also recited. The information from the first reporting source and the information from the second reporting source is stored in a database such that the information from the first reporting source and the information from the second reporting source can be accessed from the database. A first entity is enabled to access a first subset of the information stored in the database while a second entity is not allowed to access the first subset of the information stored in the database. | 07-25-2013 |
20130191017 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUGMENTING A GUIDANCE SYSTEM WITH A PATH SENSOR - In an automatic vehicle position control system, such as a satellite-based agricultural implement steering system, the satellite-based steering information is adjusted with information obtained from one or more path sensors to facilitate the automatic nudging of the vehicle to take account of inaccurate tracking of the agricultural implement relative to its tractor, terrain variations, and inaccuracies in the satellite-based steering system. | 07-25-2013 |
20130188386 | DATA COLLECTOR WITH EXPANDED FUNCTIONALITY - Embodiments of the present invention recite a data collector with expanded functionality and a method of enhancing revenue generation using a data collector with expanded functionality. In one embodiment, a central unit of a data collector is configured to receive a replaceable unit such that any one of a variety of replaceable units can be configure to be attached to said central unit. | 07-25-2013 |
20130187885 | SYSTEM FOR EXTENDING THE LIFESPAN OF A TOUCH SCREEN ASSEMBLY - Embodiments of the present invention recite a system for extending the lifespan of a touch screen assembly. In one embodiment, a signal is received indicating an input pressure is being applied to a touch screen assembly. It is then determined that the input pressure comprises a valid input event and the coordinates of the valid input event are received from the touch screen assembly. | 07-25-2013 |
20130147667 | SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING POSITION IN A WORK SPACE - A system for determining the dimensional coordinates of a point of interest in a work space, includes a plurality of fixed-position ranging radios, located at known positions in the work space, and a wand having a first end configured for indicating a point of interest. A pair of ranging radios are mounted on the wand. A measurement circuit, responsive to the pair of ranging radios, determines the position of each of the pair of ranging radios with respect to the plurality of fixed-position ranging radios, and determines the position of the first end of the wand with respect to the plurality of fixed position ranging radios. A robotic total station may be used in lieu of the fixed-position ranging radios to monitor the positions of retroreflective elements on the wand. | 06-13-2013 |
20130141276 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus - Methods and apparatus are presented for determining position a GNSS rover antenna from single-frequency observations of GNSS signals collected at the antenna over multiple epochs and from correction data for at least one of the epochs. Coded raw data prepared from the single-frequency observations in a binary format are obtained and decoded to obtain decoded raw data. The decoded raw data are used to construct multiple epochs of measurement data of time, range and phase. Correction data are obtained for at least one of the epochs. The measurement data are processed with the correction data in a realtime kinematic positioning engine to obtain a position estimate for each of a plurality of epochs. | 06-06-2013 |
20130139395 | ROBOTIC LEVELING - A method of determining an elevation of a point relative to a leveling instrument includes sending a first signal from a controller to the leveling instrument using a wireless link. The first signal indicates to the leveling instrument to automatically align an alignment unit of the leveling instrument with a reference target of a leveling staff. The method also includes receiving a second signal at the controller using the wireless link. The second signal is sent from the leveling instrument and indicates that the alignment unit is aligned with the reference target. The method also includes sending a third signal from the controller to the leveling instrument using the wireless link. The third signal indicates to the leveling instrument to automatically determine the elevation of the point relative to the leveling instrument. | 06-06-2013 |
20130138606 | MANAGING INFORMATION AT A CONSTRUCTION SITE - A method for managing information at a construction site is disclosed. In one embodiment, task data is received from a handheld tool at a construction site. A database is populated with the task data such that the task data can be retrieved from the database. The task data is then used to generate at least one report. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138466 | AUTOMATED HANDTOOL TASK VERIFICATION - A method of automated handheld tool task verification is disclosed. In one embodiment, at least one operating parameter for performing a task is received at a handheld tool. It is then verified at the handheld tool that it is configured with the at least one operating parameter. The handheld tool then generates data verifying that the task was performed in accordance with the at least one operating parameter. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138465 | APPLICATION INFORMATION FOR POWER TOOLS - A method for conveying application information for power tools is disclosed. In one embodiment, information describing a task which is to be performed by a handheld tool is accessed. In one embodiment, the handheld tool is a power tool. Based upon the information describing the task, at least one operating parameter for performing the task is conveyed to the handheld tool. The handheld tool is then configured with the at least one operating parameter prior to initiating the task. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138464 | INTEGRATION OF AS BUILT DATA OF A PROJECT - A method for reporting as-built data of a project is disclosed. In one embodiment, at least one attribute of a task perform by a handheld tool is recorded at the handheld tool. The attribute of the at least one task is reported via a wireless communication link to an information management system. The at least one attribute of the task is used to update a record of a project stored at the information management system. | 05-30-2013 |
20130137468 | INTEGRATING POSITION INFORMATION INTO A HANDHELD TOOL - A method for integrating position information is disclosed. In one embodiment, the position data of an object embedded in a material at a worksite is recorded. The position data is used to update a record showing the position of the object as an embedded object. The position of the embedded object is displayed at a handheld tool. | 05-30-2013 |
20130137079 | REFERENCE BASED POSITIONING OF HANDHELD TOOLS - A method for positioning a handheld tool is disclosed. In one embodiment, information is received at a handheld tool for positioning a working end of the handheld tool at a desired position. Information is also received at the handheld tool for aligning the handheld tools at the desired position. | 05-30-2013 |
20130135090 | Real-Time Detection of Hazardous Driving - A system is disclosed which provides real-time detection of hazardous driving behavior. The system collects information about the motion of a vehicle along a path, for example, using a global positioning satellite system receiver. Roadside signs along the path are detected and their content determined. That information is compared with information about the motion of the vehicle to provide information with regard to potentially hazardous driving behavior. | 05-30-2013 |
20130132466 | 3D MODELING SYSTEM DISTRIBUTED BETWEEN A CLIENT DEVICE WEB BROWSER AND A SERVER - A system and method for implementing the functions of a web-based 3D modeling system partially as a script interpretable by a client browser application and partially as a component executing on a server modeling engine. A client-side script component may execute lightweight modeling system commands while the server-side modeling engine may execute computationally expensive 3D modeling system commands. For example, the script component may be accessed by the client device upon visiting a web page of the modeling service hosted by the web server. The script may include Javascript® instructions for viewing a 3D model in a browser window without installing a browser plug-in or a standalone application on the client device. However, to edit the model, the script component may forward commands and requests to the server via the network and also receive modified model data from the server. | 05-23-2013 |
20130125029 | EXTENSIBLE WEB-BASED 3D MODELING - A system for extending the functionality of a web-based, three-dimensional modeling in a browser application is stored as instructions on a computer-readable medium. The instructions include an interface module that may receive user commands from the browser application that define a script including functions to modify or create a 3D model. The script instructions may cause a rendering of the 3D model to be displayed in a window controlled by the browser application. A modeling engine as a compiled browser plug-in may extends the functionality of the browser application. Further, the modeling engine may include functions to interpret model data corresponding to a 3D model and render the 3D model in accordance with the script. Further instructions include a script interface layer that may expose the modeling engine functions to the interface module for use by the script functions. The script functions extend the modeling engine functions. | 05-16-2013 |
20130124700 | EFFICIENT DISTRIBUTION OF FUNCTIONAL EXTENSIONS TO A 3D MODELING SOFTWARE - Functional extensions are provided for use with a modeling software. The functional extensions provide functionality not otherwise provided by the modeling software. The functional extensions are received from a client device by a server and stored in a database. Thereafter, the server transmits the functional extensions to a second client device, sometimes in response to receiving a request for the functional extension from the second client device. The server may update a user profile to indicate that a functional extension was received from a user operating the client device and, additionally, may transmit the functional extension to the second client device when the server receives an indication that the user is operating the second client device. | 05-16-2013 |
20130124155 | Controlling Features In A Software Application Based on The Status of User Subscription - Features of a 3D modeling software application are controlled based on a subscription status of a user. A user having an active subscription status is provided with 3D modeling functions that include functions for creating, inspecting, and modifying 3D models. If the user's subscription status changes to an expired status, the user is provided with at least one of the 3D modeling functions that was provided during the active subscription and is prevented from using at least one other of the 3D modeling functions that was provided during the active subscription. | 05-16-2013 |
20130120378 | PROGRESSIVELY PROVIDING SOFTWARE COMPONENTS FOR BROWSER-BASED 3D MODELING - Software components are provided for a browser-based 3D modeling system. The software components provide 3D modeling functionality for a user at a client device running a web browser application. At least two software components are provided. An introductory software component allows at least the rendering and interactive viewing of 3D models, and causes a request for an extended software component to be generated in response to receiving via a user interface a user request. An extended software component that is provided in response to the request allows at least the modification of 3D models. | 05-16-2013 |
20130120369 | Controlling Rights to a Drawing in a Three-Dimensional Modeling Environment - A first user having a certain set of privileges with respect to an initial three-dimensional (3D) model associates a watermark with the initial 3D model, so that the watermark is displayed whenever the initial 3D model is viewed or edited. A second user having a smaller set of privileges with respect to the initial 3D model is permitted to view, copy and/or modify the initial 3D model, but is not permitted to remove or alter the content of the watermark. The watermark is continuously displayed as the second user works with the initial 3D model. When the second user applies a change to the initial 3D model, an indication of the modifications applied by the second user is generated and stored with the model data corresponding to the updated 3D model. | 05-16-2013 |
20130120368 | Browser-Based Collaborative Development of a 3D Model - A system for collaborative three-dimensional (3D) modeling in a browser application is stored as instructions on a computer-readable medium. The instructions include a browser interface module that executes on the one or more processors to receive user commands from the browser application for modifying a 3D model and cause a rendering of the 3D model to be displayed in a window controlled by the browser application. The instructions further include a modeling engine module that executes on the one or more processors to interpret model data corresponding to the 3D model to generate the rendering of the 3D model, and modify the model data in accordance with the received user commands. Still further, the instructions include a collaboration module that executes on the one or more processors to cause the modified 3D model to be synchronized in real time between the first computing and a second computing device at which the 3D model is being concurrently developed, where the first computing device and the second computing device operate independently of each other on a communication network. | 05-16-2013 |
20130120367 | Providing A Real-Time Shared Viewing Experience In A Three-Dimensional Modeling Environment - When multiple users simultaneously view and/or collaboratively develop a three-dimensional (3D) model using respective independent computing devices, one of the participating users may locally modify a viewpoint of the 3D model, and the viewpoint changes are automatically propagated in real-time to the other users. A viewpoint may correspond to a positioning, an orientation, a zoom degree, an angle, etc. of the 3D model as would be provided by a virtual camera trained on the 3D model. The multiple users may share a common viewpoint of the 3D model in real-time in addition to viewing and/or participating in the generation and modification of the 3D model in real-time. In an embodiment, only one user at a time may be allowed to control the viewpoint modification of the 3D model. | 05-16-2013 |
20130116894 | Sugar cane harvester automatic cutter height control - Sugar cane harvester automatic cutter height control systems maintain consistent cutter heights even as a harvesting machine traverses changing field conditions. After an operator chooses an initial cutting height the automatic systems maintain that height even as ground conditions change. | 05-09-2013 |
20130106857 | LIGHTWEIGHT THREE-DIMENSIONAL DISPLAY | 05-02-2013 |
20130103271 | SENSOR UNIT SYSTEM - A mobile construction device sensor unit system is disclosed. In one embodiment, a point-to-point radio ranging system coupled with a mobile construction device. A position determining component coupled with the point-to-point radio ranging system is configured for determining a position of the sensor unit in at least two dimensions based on communications between the point-to-point radio ranging system and a plurality of tags respectively located at a plurality of knowable locations within an operating environment of the mobile construction device. A communications link controller communicatively coupled with the position determining component is configured for wirelessly providing information, including the sensor unit position, to a receiving unit located apart from the sensor unit. | 04-25-2013 |
20130091125 | CONSTRUCTION DRAWING EVALUATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - The invention provides the ability to count symbols within drawings in an automated fashion using a computer processor. This may be accomplished by identifying a particular symbol (representing a drawing part) and then permitting the computer to search for the identified symbol in the drawing. Following the initial search, a secondary search may be performed to increase the accuracy of an initial automated count, and obtaining refined searches results representing similar parts (represented by the same symbol) but being a part type as indicated by an identifier associated with the initial symbol. | 04-11-2013 |
20130073605 | Publication of Equipment Status - This disclosure concerns novel tools and techniques for distributing status information, including without limitation status information about commercial equipment. In some cases, a status monitoring device can be attached to, incorporated within, or otherwise placed in communication with a piece of commercial equipment. The status monitoring device can monitor the status of the equipment and communicate that status. Some of the discloses tools and techniques employ a social networking infrastructure to convey information (such as status information about a piece of equipment). | 03-21-2013 |
20130060520 | Method And System For Position Determination Using RFID Devices - A method of determining a gauge and a tilt of a rail track at a location includes providing a rail trolley including a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, an RFID reader, a gauge sensor, and a tilt sensor and positioning the rail trolley on the rail track at the location. The method also includes interrogating one or more RFID tags positioned along the rail track and determining, using the processor, a fixed location associated with each of the one or more RFID tags. The method further includes determining, using the processor, the location of the rail trolley in relation to the fixed locations associated with each of the one or more RFID tags and determining the gauge and tilt of the rail track at the location of the rail trolley. | 03-07-2013 |
20130054107 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS OF A VEHICLE - A system for calculating a first mass value indicative of a first mass of a vehicle is provided, wherein the vehicle has a vehicle interface capable of providing fuel data indicative of a rate at which fuel is being consumed by an engine of the vehicle at each point in time. The system includes: an interface coupled with the vehicle interface, the interface configured for: receiving the fuel data; and receiving movement data indicative of a movement of the vehicle at the each point in time; and a data processing system configured for: deriving a plurality of mass values from the fuel data and the movement data, each mass value corresponding to a respective point in time; and calculating, using the plurality of mass values, the first mass value indicative of the first mass of the vehicle. | 02-28-2013 |
20130044026 | GNSS Signal Processing with Ionosphere Model for Synthetic Reference Data - Some embodiments of the present invention derive an ionospheric phase bias and an ionospheric differential code bias (DCB) using an absolute ionosphere model, which can be estimated from data obtained from a network of reference stations or obtained from an external source such as WAAS, GAIM, IONEX or other. Fully synthetic reference station data is generated using the ionospheric phase bias and/or the differential code bias together with the phase leveled clock and ionospheric-free code bias and/or MW bias. | 02-21-2013 |
20130038858 | MULTIPLE-WAVELENGTH CAPABLE LASER RECEIVER - 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. | 02-14-2013 |
20130035978 | MANAGEMENT OF MATERIALS ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE - A computer implemented route determination system comprises a route generator, a cost scenario generator, and a report generator. The route generator is configured to define a plurality of routes on which move a material between a construction site and a destination site of a plurality of possible destination sites. The cost scenario generator is configured to determine cost scenarios associated with the plurality of routes. The report generator is configured to generate a report which identifies the routes and the cost scenarios for the destination site. | 02-07-2013 |
20130029654 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR LIMITING THE FUNCTIONALITY OF A MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICE - In a method for assuring compliance with a mandated requirement, a control component resident in said mobile electronic device is implemented in response to receiving an indication to limit the operation of the mobile electronic device in a moving vehicle. A position determining component disposed within the mobile electronic device is used to determine the speed of the mobile electronic device. The speed of the mobile electronic device is determined to exceed a speed threshold and the functionality of the mobile electronic device is restricted based upon the determination that the speed threshold has been exceeded. | 01-31-2013 |
20130024245 | MANAGEMENT OF MATERIALS ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE - In a computer implemented method for management of materials on a construction site, a status of a project which uses at least one material is determined by a computer system. A report is generated by the computer system. The report identifies a vehicle, from a vehicle pool, to be utilized to move the material and defines a load of the material which is to be moved by the vehicle, according to a mass haul plan, from a first location to a second location. The vehicle is identified based on results of a simulation. The status of the project is automatically updated by the computer system based on an actual size and an actual drop-off location of the load of the material moved by the vehicle. The computer system updates the report based on the updating of the status of the project. | 01-24-2013 |
20130021175 | Asset Management Systems and Methods - Novel tools and techniques for tracking assets, such as high-value tools, customer equipment, testing equipment, technicians, and/or the like. Some of these tools and techniques can be used to track assets in a mobile environment (such as in a delivery truck, installation van, and/or the like). | 01-24-2013 |
20130019486 | TWO DIMENSION LAYOUT AND POINT TRANSFER SYSTEM - A two-dimension layout system identifies points and their coordinates, and transfers identified points on a solid surface to other surfaces in a vertical direction. Two leveling laser light transmitters are used with a remote unit to control certain functions. The laser transmitters rotate about the azimuth, and emit vertical (plumb) laser planes. After being set up using benchmark points, the projected lines of the laser planes will intersect on the floor of a jobsite at any point of interest in a virtual floor plan, under control of a user with the remote unit. The laser light planes also project lines that will intersect along the ceiling at a point that is truly plumb above the crossing point on the floor. The laser planes also provide an “implied” plumb line that is projected in space, which is visible along a solid vertical surface between the intersecting floor and ceiling points. | 01-24-2013 |
20130002807 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MEASURING ANGLES BASED ON 360 DEGREE IMAGES - A method of measuring an angle includes orienting a measurement device at a reference position characterized by a reference angle. A first panoramic image defined by a predetermined range of elevation angles is acquired where the first panoramic image includes an object. A first bearing of the object in relation to the reference angle is determined and the measurement device is rotated to a measurement position characterized by a measurement angle. A second panoramic image defined by the predetermined range of elevation angles is acquired where the second panoramic image includes the object. A second bearing of the object in relation to the reference angle is determined. The measurement angle is computed as a function of the first bearing and the second bearing. | 01-03-2013 |
20120330601 | DETERMINING TILT ANGLE AND TILT DIRECTION USING IMAGE PROCESSING - A survey instrument includes a surveying device configured to perform survey measurements and an imaging device coupled to the surveying device and having a known spatial relationship with the surveying device. The imaging device may be configured to obtain image information. The survey instrument also includes a processor in electrical communication with the imaging device. The processor may be configured to receive the image information from the imaging device, process the image information to determine a pose of the imaging device, and determine a tilt angle of the survey instrument and a tilt direction of the survey instrument in a reference frame. Tilt angle and the tilt direction of the survey instrument may be determined using the pose of the imaging device. | 12-27-2012 |
20120306694 | GNSS Signal Processing with Regional Augmentation Message - Methods and apparatus for processing of GNSS data derived from multi-frequency code and carrier observations are presented which make available correction data for use by a rover located within the region, the correction data comprising: the ionospheric delay over the region, the tropospheric delay over the region, the phase-leveled geometric correction per satellite, and the at least one code bias per satellite. In some embodiments the correction data includes an ionospheric phase bias per satellite. Methods and apparatus for determining a precise position of a rover located within a region are presented in which a GNSS receiver is operated to obtain multi-frequency code and carrier observations and correction data, to create rover corrections from the correction data, and to determine a precise rover position using the rover observations and the rover corrections. The correction data comprises at least one code bias per satellite, a fixed-nature MW bias per satellite and/or values from which a fixed-nature MW bias per satellite is derivable, and an ionospheric delay per satellite for each of multiple regional network stations and/or non-ionospheric corrections. Methods and apparatus for encoding and decoding the correction messages containing correction data are also presented, in which network messages include network elements related to substantially all stations of the network and cluster messages include cluster elements related to subsets of the network. | 12-06-2012 |
20120293367 | GNSS Signal Processing with Regional Augmentation Network - Methods and apparatus for processing of GNSS data derived from multi-frequency code and carrier observations are presented which make available correction data for use by a rover located within the region, the correction data comprising: the ionospheric delay over the region, the tropospheric delay over the region, the phase-leveled geometric correction per satellite, and the at least one code bias per satellite. In some embodiments the correction data includes an ionospheric phase bias per satellite. Methods and apparatus for determining a precise position of a rover located within a region are presented in which a GNSS receiver is operated to obtain multi-frequency code and carrier observations and correction data, to create rover corrections from the correction data, and to determine a precise rover position using the rover observations and the rover corrections. The correction data comprises at least one code bias per satellite, a fixed-nature MW bias per satellite and/or values from which a fixed-nature MW bias per satellite is derivable, and an ionospheric delay per satellite for each of multiple regional network stations and/or non-ionospheric corrections. Methods and apparatus for encoding and decoding the correction messages containing correction data are also presented, in which network messages include network elements related to substantially all stations of the network and cluster messages include cluster elements related to subsets of the network. | 11-22-2012 |
20120286991 | GNSS Signal Processing with Regional Augmentation Positioning - Methods and apparatus for processing of GNSS data derived from multi-frequency code and carrier observations are presented which make available correction data for use by a rover located within the region, the correction data comprising: the ionospheric delay over the region, the tropospherπc delay over the region, the phase-leveled geometric correction per satellite, and the at least one code bias per satellite. In some embodiments the correction data includes an ionospheric phase bias per satellite. Methods and apparatus for determining a precise position of a rover located within a region are presented in which a GNSS receiver is operated to obtain multi-frequency code and carrier observations and correction data, to create rover corrections from the correction data, and to determine a precise rover position using the rover observations and the rover corrections. The correction data comprises at least one code bias per satellite, a fixed-nature MW bias per satellite and/or values from which a fixed-nature MW bias per satellite is derivable, and an ionospheric delay per satellite for each of multiple regional network stations and/or non-ionospheric corrections. Methods and apparatus for encoding and decoding the correction messages containing correction data are also presented, in which network messages include network elements related to substantially all stations of the network and cluster messages include cluster elements related to subsets of the network. | 11-15-2012 |
20120274772 | Railway Track Monitoring - Novel tools and techniques for monitoring railway track geometry. In one aspect, some such tools and techniques can determine a location of a platform along a railway, capture one or more images of the railway, and/or analyze the rail configuration at that point. In another aspect, some solutions might employ photogrammetric techniques to analyze the rail configuration and thereafter store data about the rail configuration, perhaps correlated with the location of the images, in a data store. | 11-01-2012 |
20120229332 | Indicating Quality of GNSS Position Fixes - Methods and apparatus are provided for reporting quality of GNSS position fixes. A desired quality mode selection is obtained. Position fixes with respective precision estimates and satellite tracking information are obtained. For each of a plurality of position fixes a current positioning quality is determined, based on the precision estimates and satellite tracking information and quality mode selection. Current positioning quality is reported. The quality selection can be a preference of availability over accuracy, or accuracy over availability, or a balance of availability and accuracy. | 09-13-2012 |
20120229262 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SURVEYING USING RFID DEVICES - A method of surveying includes detecting an RFID tag associated with a position of interest and decoding information stored in the RFID tag to extract data associated with the position of interest. The method also includes presenting the data associated with the position of interest to an operator of a surveying tool. | 09-13-2012 |
20120200697 | Dry Agricultural Materials Management - Systems and methods that improve farmers' ability to measure quantities of dry agricultural materials and rates of change of those quantities are disclosed. Also disclosed are systems and methods to rapidly and effectively communicate materials quantities and rates between farm equipment operators. | 08-09-2012 |
20120195466 | IMAGE-BASED SURFACE TRACKING - A method of image-tracking by using an image capturing device ( | 08-02-2012 |
20120194889 | LASER TRANSMITTER AND METHOD - A laser transmitter projects a beam of laser light outward while raising and lowering the beam. The beam may define a conical surface of varying inclination. The transmitter includes a laser source that directs a beam generally vertically, and a beam diverting element. The beam diverting element is positioned in the path of the beam, intercepting the beam and redirecting it. The beam emerges from the transmitter as a non-vertical beam that is raised and lowered. The diverting element may include a pair of mirrors configured as a pentaprism, with one of the mirrors pivotable. Alternatively, the diverting element may include a plurality of micro mirrors. Also, the diverting element may include a conical reflector and an annular lens which is cyclically raised and lowered. The beam may be raised and lowered cyclically according to a predetermined schedule, or it may be raised and lowered non-cyclically. | 08-02-2012 |
20120191349 | LANDFILL GAS SURFACE MONITOR AND METHODS - Embodiments of the invention provide systems, devices, and method for monitoring gas emissions within a geographic area. A method for monitoring gas emissions may include providing a gas-monitoring device configured to be moved within the geographic area. The method may also include determining geographic locations of the device as the device is moved within the geographic area, determining a quantity of one or more gases in the air as the device is moved within the geographic area, and associating the geographic locations with the quantity of gases to provide gas emissions data for the geographic area. The gas emissions data may be communicated to one or more external devices, sources, and/or systems for analysis, documentation, and/or compliance reporting. | 07-26-2012 |
20120188529 | REMOTE POSITIONING - A method for determining a distance to a target point located approximately at ground level includes aiming a measurement device at the target point, determining a tilt of the measurement device using tilt sensors, and determining a height of the measurement device above the ground. A position of the target point may be determined using the tilt and height of the measurement device, a position of the measurement device, and a bearing to the target point. | 07-26-2012 |
20120186088 | INTEGRATED SURVEYING AND LEVELING - A method of determining a position of a point in a local coordinate system using a survey instrument comprising an integrated optical total station and digital level includes measuring an angle associated with the point. The angle may be measured about a vertical axis of the survey instrument, and the vertical axis may be substantially aligned with a local gravity vector. The method also includes determining a distance between the survey instrument and the point using an electronic distance measuring device and measuring a difference in height between a horizontal axis of the survey instrument and the point using a leveling staff positioned relative to the point. The horizontal axis may be substantially orthogonal to the vertical axis. The method also includes determining the position of the point in the local coordinate system using the angle, the distance, and the difference in height. | 07-26-2012 |
20120166137 | Enhanced Position Measurement Systems and Methods - Novel solutions for position measurement, including without limitation tools and techniques that can be used for land surveying and in similar applications. One such tool is a greatly enhanced position measurement system that takes the form of a surveying rod with substantial independent functionality, which can be used with or without a total station or similar device. | 06-28-2012 |
20120163656 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMAGE-BASED POSITIONING - Method and apparatus are provided for image based positioning comprising capturing a first image with an image capturing device. Wherein said first image includes at least one object. Moving the platform and capturing a second image with the image capturing device. The second image including the at least one object. Capturing in the first image an image of a surface; capturing in the second image a second image of the surface. Processing the plurality of images of the object and the surface using a combined feature based process and surface tracking process to track the location of the surface. Finally, determining the location of the platform by processing the combined feature based process and surface based process. | 06-28-2012 |
20120162007 | GNSS Signal Processing to Estimate Phase-Leveled Clocks - Methods and apparatus are described for processing a set of GNSS signal data derived from code observations and carrier-phase observations at multiple receivers of GNSS signals of multiple satellites over multiple epochs, the GNSS signals having at least two carrier frequencies and a navigation message containing orbit information, comprising: obtaining precise orbit information for each satellite, determining at least one set of ambiguities per receiver, each ambiguity corresponding to one of a receiver-satellite link and a satellite-receiver-satellite link, and using at least the precise orbit information, the ambiguities and the GNSS signal data to estimate a phase-leveled clock per satellite. | 06-28-2012 |
20120154215 | GNSS Signal Processing with Synthesized Base Station Data - Methods and apparatus are described for determining position of a rover antenna, comprising: obtaining rover GNSS data derived from code observations and carrier phase observations of GNSS signals of multiple satellites over multiple epochs, obtaining precise satellite data for the satellites, determining a virtual base station location, generating epochs of synthesized base station data using at least the precise satellite data and the virtual base station location, and applying a differential process to at least the rover GNSS data and the synthesized base station data to determine at least rover antenna positions. | 06-21-2012 |
20120154214 | GNSS Signal Processing with Rover Ambiguity Fixing - Methods and apparatus are described for processing a set of GNSS signal data derived from signals of a set of satellites having carriers observed at a rover antenna, wherein the data includes a carrier observation and a code observation of each carrier of each satellite, comprising: obtaining for each satellite clock corrections comprising at least two of: (i) a code-leveled satellite clock, (ii) a phase-leveled satellite clock, and (iii) a satellite clock bias representing a difference between a code-leveled satellite clock and a phase-leveled satellite clock, running a first filter which uses at least the GNSS signal data and the satellite clock corrections to estimate values for parameters comprising at least one carrier ambiguity for each satellite, and a covariance matrix of the carrier ambiguities, determining from each carrier ambiguity an integer-nature carrier ambiguity comprising one of: an integer value, and a combination of integer candidates, inserting the integer-nature carrier ambiguities as pseudo-observations into a second filter, and applying the second filter to the GNSS signal data and the satellite clock corrections to obtain estimated values for parameters comprising at least the position of the receiver. | 06-21-2012 |
20120154210 | GNSS Signal Processing to Estimate Orbits - Methods and apparatus are described for processing a set of GNSS signal data derived from signals of GNSS satellites observed at reference station receivers, the data representing code observations and carrier observations on each of at least two carriers over multiple epochs, comprising: obtaining an orbit start vector comprising: a time sequence of predicted positions and predicted velocities for each satellite over a first interval, and the partial derivatives of the predicted positions and predicted velocities with respect to initial positions, initial velocities, force model parameters and Earth orientation parameters, obtaining ionospheric-free linear combinations of the code observations and the carrier observations for each satellite at multiple reference stations, and iteratively correcting the orbit start vector using at each epoch the ionospheric-free linear combinations and predicted Earth orientation parameters, as soon as the ionspheric-free linear combinations of the epoch are available, to obtain updated orbit start vector values comprising a time sequence of predicted positions and predicted velocities for each satellite over a subsequent interval of epochs and an estimate of Earth orientation parameters. | 06-21-2012 |
20120136475 | SYSTEM FOR POSITIONING A TOOL IN A WORK SPACE - A system for assisting in the use by an operator of the operating element of a tool at desired locations at a worksite, includes a stationary control and a position sensor secured to the tool. The stationary control is located at the worksite, and has data stored therein specifying one or more desired locations for operation of the operating element of the tool at the worksite. A position sensor is mounted on the tool. The position sensor determines the position of the operating element of the tool. The position sensor includes a communication device for communicating with said stationary control, a sensor for determining its relative position with respect to said stationary control, and a display for providing indications to the user of the tool of the desired location for the operating element of the tool and of the actual location of the operating element of the tool. | 05-31-2012 |
20120127455 | STATIONING AN UNLEVELED OPTICAL TOTAL STATION - A method of stationing an unleveled optical total station includes placing the unleveled optical total station at a first station. At the first station, positions of at least three non-collinear measurement points in an instrument coordinate system are determined using the unleveled optical total station. The method also includes obtaining positions of the at least three non-collinear measurement points in a local coordinate system. A transformation is computed between the instrument coordinate system and the local coordinate system using the positions of the at least three non-collinear measurement points in the instrument coordinate system and the positions of the at least three non-collinear measurement points in the local coordinate system. | 05-24-2012 |
20120119944 | GNSS ATMOSPHERIC ESTIMATION WITH AMBIGUITY FIXING - Methods and apparatus are presented for estimating environmental parameters from GNSS signals in real time. Some embodiments estimate a float solution using a federated ionospheric filter. Some embodiments fix ambiguities for improved estimates. | 05-17-2012 |
20120111248 | PLANTER ASSEMBLY WITH SELECTIVELY ACTUATED OUTPUT - An actuating system for a planting device. The actuating system has an electric motor that provides an actuating force for a seed shaft. A pneumatic acting member is connected to a source of compressed air through a valve and positioned to engage the electric motor to actuate the electric motor. The source of compressed air and electric motor can thus be connected to a controller that operates the source of compressed air and the electric motor in order to provide selective actuation to control planting of the planting device. | 05-10-2012 |
20120105870 | LAYOUT METHOD - A method of directing a beam of laser light at a target point on a wall or other generally vertical surface defined by the intersection of a reference line with the wall or surface includes the steps of: a.) defining the reference line, b.) calculating the three dimensional location of a point on the line, c.) directing a beam of laser light from an automated total station toward said point on the line, d.) measuring the three dimensional location of the reference point on the vertical surface illuminated by said beam of laser light, e.) determining the point on the reference line closest to said reference point on the vertical surface, f.) redirecting the beam of laser light from the automated total station toward the point on the reference line closest to said reference point, and g.) repeating steps d.) through f.) until the point on the reference line closest to said reference point is less than a predetermined distance from said reference point. The point on the line in steps b.) and c.) may be the midpoint of the line. The reference line may be defined by specifying the end points of the line. | 05-03-2012 |
20120101784 | Wide-area agricultural monitoring and prediction - Ground-based measurements of agricultural metrics such as NDVI are used to calibrate wide-area aerial measurements of the same metrics. Calibrated wide-area data may then be used as an input to a field prescription processor. | 04-26-2012 |
20120092213 | GNSS ATMOSPHERIC ESTIMATION WITH FEDERATED IONOSPHERIC FILTER - Methods and apparatus are presented for estimating environmental parameters from GNSS signals in real time. Some embodiments estimate a float solution using a federated ionospheric filter. Some embodiments fix ambiguities for improved estimates. | 04-19-2012 |
20120089304 | Tracking Carbon Output in Agricultural Applications - Novel tools and techniques to enhance and/or facilitate the collection, tracking, and/or verification of greenhouse gas emissions and/or savings, particularly (but not exclusively) in agricultural applications. Some tools, for example, can assist in the verification of carbon credits that may result from conservation tilling activities. Other embodiments can track greenhouse gas emissions that result from agricultural activities, including without limitation the application of pesticides, fertilizers, and/or other agricultural chemicals. | 04-12-2012 |
20120026038 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus - Methods and apparatus are provided for processing a set of GNSS signal data derived from observations of GNSS signals of multiple transmitters over multiple epochs, the GNSS signals having a first signal and a second signal in a first band which can be tracked as a single wide-band signal and each of which can be tracked separately, comprising: obtaining carrier-phase observations of the first signal, obtaining carrier-phase observations of the second signal, obtaining code observations of the wide-band signal, and estimating from a set of observables comprising the carrier-phase observations of the first signal, the carrier-phase observations of the second signal and the code observations of the wide-band signal values for a set of parameters comprising: position of a receiver of the GNSS signals, clock error of a receiver of the GNSS signals, and an array of ambiguities comprising an ambiguity for each transmitter from which carrier-phase observations of the first signal are obtained and an ambiguity for each transmitter from which carrier-phase observations of the second signal are obtained. | 02-02-2012 |
20120013736 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING ANGLES AND LOCATIONS OF POINTS - An apparatus for determining an azimuth of a target point is provided. The apparatus includes a support structure and an imaging device coupled to the support structure and configured to provide image data. The apparatus also includes a position measuring device coupled to the support structure and configured to determine position information and a processor in electrical communication with the imaging device and the position measuring device. The processor is configured to receive the image data from the imaging device, receive the position information from the position measuring device, determine a baseline between a first position and a second position, determine an orientation between overlapping images, and compute the azimuth of the target point relative to the baseline. | 01-19-2012 |
20110285587 | GNSS Surveying Methods and Apparatus - Methods and apparatus are presented for improved productivity in determining static position of an antenna of a GNSS rover, such as in stop-and-go surveying. Computer-implemented methods and apparatus provide for determining a static position of an antenna of a GNSS rover from observations of GNSS signals collected at the antenna over multiple epochs and from correction data for at least one of the epochs. In some forms this comprises: acquiring first-epoch rover observations of GNSS signals received at the antenna during a first epoch, obtaining first-epoch correction data for the first epoch, determining a synchronized rover antenna position for the first epoch from the first-epoch rover observations and the first-epoch correction data, acquiring subsequent-epoch rover observations from the received GNSS satellite signals for at least one subsequent epoch for which correction data is unavailable, determining that the antenna position remained static for at least two static epochs, and determining an updated rover antenna position from the synchronized rover antenna position and the subsequent-epoch rover observations of at least one static epoch of the at least one subsequent epoch. | 11-24-2011 |
20110279314 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Ionospheric Filters - Methods and apparatus are provided for processing a set of GNSS signal data derived from signals of a first set of satellites having at least three carriers and signals of a second set of satellites having two carriers. A geometry filter uses a geometry filter combination to obtain an array of geometry-filter ambiguity estimates for the geometry filter combination and associated statistical information. Ionosphere filters use a two-frequency ionospheric combination to obtain an array of ionosphere-filter ambiguity estimates for the two-frequency ionospheric combinations and associated statistical information. Each two-frequency ionospheric combination comprises a geometry-free two-frequency ionospheric residual carrier-phase combination of observations of a first frequency and observations of a second frequency. Auxiliary ionosphere filters use an auxiliary ionospheric combination to obtain an array of auxiliary-ionosphere-filter ambiguity estimates for the auxiliary ionospheric combinations and associated statistical information. Each auxiliary ionospheric combination uses carrier-phase observations of a third frequency and carrier-phase observations of at least one of the first frequency and the second frequency. A combined array of ambiguity estimates is prepared for all carrier phase observations and associated statistical information by combining the arrays of the geometry filter and the ionosphere filters and the auxiliary ionosphere filters. | 11-17-2011 |
20110278381 | Agricultural Spreader Control - A spreader control system digitally filters noisy load cell measurements and inaccurate flow rate measurements to form an optimal estimate of material weight in a spreader bin. This estimate may be combined with spreader swath width and vehicle speed to determine application rate. When actuators for parameters such as apron speed or gate size are available, spreading rates may be controlled with active feedback. | 11-17-2011 |
20110267228 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Geometric Filter - Methods and apparatus are provided for processing a set of GNSS signal data derived from signals of a first set of satellites having at least three carriers and signals of a second set of satellites having two carriers. A geometry filter uses a geometry filter combination to obtain an array of geometry-filter ambiguity estimates for the geometry filter combination and associated statistical information. Ionosphere filters use a two-frequency ionospheric combination to obtain an array of ionosphere-filter ambiguity estimates for the two-frequency ionospheric combinations and associated statistical information. Each two-frequency ionospheric combination comprises a geometry-free two-frequency ionospheric residual carrier-phase combination of observations of a first frequency and observations of a second frequency. Auxiliary ionosphere filters use an auxiliary ionospheric combination to obtain an array of auxiliary-ionosphere-filter ambiguity estimates for the auxiliary ionospheric combinations and associated statistical information. Each auxiliary ionospheric combination uses carrier-phase observations of a third frequency and carrier-phase observations of at least one of the first frequency and the second frequency. A combined array of ambiguity estimates is prepared for all carrier phase observations and associated statistical information by combining the arrays of the geometry filter and the ionosphere filters and the auxiliary ionosphere filters. | 11-03-2011 |
20110267226 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Ambiguity Convergence Indication - Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating parameters, i.e. ambiguities, derived from GNSS signals. Observations of a GNSS signal from each of a plurality of GNSS satellites are obtained ( | 11-03-2011 |
20110264405 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MEASURING ANGLES BASED ON 360 DEGREE IMAGES - A surveying apparatus includes a support structure and a reflective surface mechanically coupled to the support structure. The reflective surface is configured to receive panoramic data over a 360° field of view. The surveying apparatus also includes an optical system mechanically coupled to the support structure and optically coupled to the reflective surface. The surveying apparatus further includes an imaging system mechanically coupled to the support structure and optically coupled to the optical system and a processor. The processor is configured to receive data from the imaging system and compute an angular measurement based on the received data. | 10-27-2011 |
20110260914 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus With Candidate Set Selection - Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating parameters, i.e. ambiguities, derived from GNSS signals. Observations of GNSS signals are obtained from each of a plurality of GNSS satellites ( | 10-27-2011 |
20110260539 | High Efficiency Backup-Power Circuits for Switch-Mode Power Supplies - Disclosed are novel interconnections of a coupling circuit and an energy storage device which enables the storage device to provide back-up power for a switching power supply without requiring the device to store or output high voltage, and which enables full utilization of the energy stored in the device. In exemplary embodiments, the combination of the coupling circuit and the energy storage device may be coupled between the input and output of the switching power supply (e.g., between the non-ground terminals of the input and output ports of the switching power supply). The coupling circuit is configured to couple power from the energy storage device to the input of the switching power supply when the input power source is not provided to the switching power supply, and optionally to couple power from the input power source to the energy storage device when the input power source is provided. | 10-27-2011 |
20110184784 | Tracking Carbon Footprints - Novel solutions to the challenges of obtaining accurate information about a user's or an organization's carbon footprint. In some cases, these solutions can obtain and/provide feedback about a user's carbon output based on the user's habits and choices. Some solutions are designed to supply services to individuals as well as commercial ventures and for a variety of vehicle fleets, including without limitation construction equipment. In different aspects, systems in accordance with various embodiments enable a variety of types of users to create their own carbon emission generation profile based on vehicle type; track, estimate, and store their emissions in a database; analyze their results and performance, using established methods and metrics and/or automatically update all operating parameters of interest. | 07-28-2011 |
20110157359 | VIRTUAL PERSPECTIVE CENTER ALIGNED WITH MEASUREMENT CENTER - An apparatus for acquiring image and location information includes an antenna comprising an element configured to receive signals for determining the location information, and an imaging device coupled to the antenna and configured to acquire the image information. A virtual perspective center of the imaging device is coincident with the element of the antenna. | 06-30-2011 |
20110156949 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Tracking Interruption - Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating parameters, i.e. ambiguities, derived from GNSS signals. Observations of each of received frequencies of a GNSS signal from a plurality of GNSS satellites are obtained for a plurality of instances in time ( | 06-30-2011 |
20110153167 | EXCAVATOR CONTROL USING RANGING RADIOS - A system for use with an excavator of the type having a chassis, bucket support elements including a boom extending from the chassis and a dipper stick pivotally mounted on the end of the boom, and an excavator bucket pivotally mounted on the end of the dipper stick, determines the position of the excavator bucket during operation of the excavator at a worksite. The system includes a plurality of fixed ranging radios that are positioned at known locations at the worksite. A pair of ranging radios is mounted on the chassis of the excavator. A third ranging radio is mounted on one of the bucket support elements. A measurement circuit is responsive to the pair of ranging radios and to the third ranging radio, and determines the position and orientation of the excavator chassis, the bucket support elements, and the bucket with respect to the plurality of fixed ranging radios. | 06-23-2011 |
20110148698 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Scaling of Quality Measure - Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating parameters, i.e. ambiguities, derived from GNSS signals. Observations of GNSS signals are obtained from each of a plurality of GNSS satellites ( | 06-23-2011 |
20110141488 | POSITIONING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DETECTING A LASER BEAM - The present invention relates to a positioning device and method for detecting light of fan shaped laser beam, as well as to a positioning system comprising the device and to a light emitting device emitting the fan shaped laser beam, which enable to find a spot of a laser beam easier and quicker. The positioning device comprises a detector for detecting light of a fan shaped laser beam rotating around a propagation axis with a direction of rotation and having two detector elements arranged in a known spatial relation for outputting a detection signal when irradiated; and a position determining unit to obtain a first set of detection signals from the detector elements, determine a first time relation between the detection signals of the first set, and determine a positional relation between the detector and the propagation axis based on the first time relation. | 06-16-2011 |
20110140959 | GNSS Signal Processing Methods and Apparatus with Ambiguity Selection - Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating parameters, i.e. ambiguities, derived from GNSS signals. Observations of a GNSS signal from each of a plurality of GNSS satellites are obtained ( | 06-16-2011 |
20110120358 | PLANTER ASSEMBLY WITH SELECTIVELY ACTUATED OUTPUT - An actuating system for a planting device. The actuating system has an electric motor that provides an actuating force for a seed shaft. A pneumatic acting member is connected to a source of compressed air through a valve and positioned to engage the electric motor to actuate the electric motor. The source of compressed air and electric motor can thus be connected to a controller that operates the source of compressed air and the electric motor in order to provide selective actuation to control planting of the planting device. | 05-26-2011 |
20110080477 | METHOD FOR INTELLIGENT SCANNING USING A TOTAL STATION - System and method for scanning an object using a surveying instrument is provided. The method includes designating an area associated with an object to be scanned. Defining one or more sections within the area associated with the object. Scanning a portion of the area associated with the object corresponding to a first section of the area associated with the object and designating one or more sections adjacent to the first section if scan results indicate presence of an object. Designating one or more sections adjacent to the first section for not scanning if the scan results of the portion of the area associated with the object corresponding to the first section do not indicate presence of an object. A remote control device is provided that can control the surveying instrument, receive the scan results, and analyze the scan results for subsequent use. | 04-07-2011 |
20110068164 | Method and Apparatus for Barcode and Position Detection - Method and apparatus for detecting barcode data of at least one item of interest. In one embodiment, a method includes detecting a barcode target, by an imaging device, associated with an item located at a position of interest. The method further includes decoding the barcode target to extract data associated with the item, determining position data for the position of interest and displaying the data associated with the item and the position data for a user. | 03-24-2011 |
20110066375 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING NAVIGATIONAL INFORMATION ASSOCIATED WITH LOCATIONS OF OBJECTS - An apparatus for providing navigational information associated with locations of objects includes an imaging device configured to acquire image data, a visual display coupled to the imaging device and configured to display the image data, a position measuring device configured to determine position information associated with the imaging device, and an orientation device configured to determine orientation information associated with the imaging device. The apparatus may also include a rendering system coupled to the visual display, the position measuring device, and the orientation device. The rendering system may be configured to determine image coordinates associated with a location of an object and provide a navigational graphic on the visual display oriented relative to the image coordinates. | 03-17-2011 |
20110043373 | Reverse RFID location system - A reverse RFID location system is based on set of RFID tags in which each tag stores data representing its position. | 02-24-2011 |
20110022267 | Agricultural Vehicle Autopilot Rollover Risk Assessment System - A rollover risk assessment system includes sensors and a processor for estimating rollover risk associated with maneuvering on varying terrain. | 01-27-2011 |
20100315286 | System and Method for Site Calibration of a Surveying Device - A system and method for site calibration of a controller is provided. In one embodiment, a method may include determining coordinates of a point in a first coordinate system based on at least one measurement by a surveying device, determining coordinates of the point in a second coordinate system based on data provided by a global positioning device, and calculating a transformation of the first coordinate system relative to the second coordinate system based on the coordinates determined for the point. The method may further include calibrating the controller based, at least in part, on the transformation. | 12-16-2010 |
20100265061 | Asset Management Systems and Methods - Novel tools and techniques for tracking assets, such as high-value tools, customer equipment, testing equipment, technicians, and/or the like. Some of these tools and techniques can be used to track assets in a mobile environment (such as in a delivery truck, installation van, and/or the like). | 10-21-2010 |
20100253575 | GENERALIZED PARTIAL FIXING - Described is a generalized approach for integer parameter estimation, especially in the context of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). The problem solved is the case where a definitively correct integer solution cannot be identified for all ambiguity parameters in a reliable way. The proposed solution is to apply a linear transformation to the ambiguities (multiply with a matrix) such that the images of the first and the second candidate (or more) are identical. That way, from the first and second (and possibly more) candidates of the integer least-squares solution, a subset of ambiguity combinations is derived that can be fixed. Thus, it is no longer necessary to choose between the solutions as they coincide for the new ambiguities. The advantage of this approach is maximizing all information still available when finally deriving additional parameters such as position, clock error, atmospheric errors and/or time correlated noise. This technique is applicable to real-time and post-processing applications, as well as to pure GNSS applications, GNSS integrated with other sensors (e.g. INS) and other applications that have to resolve multiple integer ambiguities. This may also apply to optical distance-measurement. GNSS applications include kinematic and static positioning with single base stations as well as with multiple base stations or reference station networks. They also comprise the integer parameter estimation methods used within the reference station network computations. | 10-07-2010 |
20100241484 | System and Method to Provide Consumables - System and method for providing consumables to machines. In one embodiment, machine data indicating a remaining quantity of a machine consumable for a machine may be received by a server. A location may be received by the server providing a location of the machine. An estimated operational duration for the machine may be determined and a supplier may be selected to provide the machine consumable based, at least in part, on the estimated operational duration. The supplier may be requested to provide the machine consumable to the machine within a time period based on the estimated operational duration. | 09-23-2010 |
20100221067 | POWERED SCREED AND METHOD OF OPERATING - A lightweight, powered screed machine for screeding the surface of a quantity of concrete having a pair of rails extending to either side, includes a frame having a handle arrangement, for manual engagement by an operator, and an elongated screed blade extending between the support rails. The machine further includes a powered vibration mechanism mounted on the frame. A pair of posts or masts are provided with one of the pair of posts attached to the frame adjacent each end of the blade and extending upward. Each of a pair of supports is positioned adjacent an associated end of the blade. Each support has rollers for engaging and riding on one of the pair of support rails, and each of the supports is attached to the frame so as to support the frame over the concrete. Each of the supports includes a linear actuator for raising and lowering the frame adjacent the rail. A pair of laser receivers is provided with each of the pair of laser receivers mounted on an associated one of the pair of posts. A control controls the linear actuators such that the screed blade is maintained at a desired height as the screed blade is moved over the concrete. | 09-02-2010 |
20100174507 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MEASURING ANGLES BASED ON 360 DEGREE IMAGES - A system for measuring angles includes a housing and an imaging device disposed in the housing. The system also includes a first optical element disposed in the housing and configured to receive light propagating from a first target along a first optical path and direct the light toward the imaging device and receive light propagating from a second target along a second optical path and direct the light toward the imaging device. The system further includes a processor in electrical communication with the imaging device and configured to receive data from the imaging device, compute a 360° angular map based on the received data, and determine an angular separation between the first target and the second target. | 07-08-2010 |
20100172546 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING ANGULAR MEASUREMENTS - A method of determining an azimuth and elevation of a point in an image is provided. The method comprises positioning an imaging device at a first position and acquiring a first image. The method also comprises rotating the imaging device and acquiring a second image at the first position. The first image includes the point, and a portion of the first image overlaps a portion of the second image. The method also includes determining correspondences between features in overlapping portions of the images, determining a first transformation between coordinates of the first image and coordinates of the second image based on the correspondences, and determining a second transformation between the coordinates of the second image and a local coordinate frame. The method also includes computing the azimuth and elevation of the point based on the first transformation and the second transformation. | 07-08-2010 |