CA2398665A1 - Surveying rod aid device - Google Patents
Surveying rod aid device Download PDFInfo
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- CA2398665A1 CA2398665A1 CA 2398665 CA2398665A CA2398665A1 CA 2398665 A1 CA2398665 A1 CA 2398665A1 CA 2398665 CA2398665 CA 2398665 CA 2398665 A CA2398665 A CA 2398665A CA 2398665 A1 CA2398665 A1 CA 2398665A1
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Abstract
A surveying rod aid device for connection with a surveying rod, including a projector, the projector including a housing and a light source for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals along a surface; a power source operable to illuminate the light source; a mounting means to connect the projector with the surveying rod; and a tilt switch for enabling the light source to be illuminated only when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation.
Description
SURVEYING ROD AID DEVICE
FIELD OF INVENTION
This invention relates to a surveying rod aid device and more particularly, to a surveying rod aid device for use by survey rod men to locate points on the ground which are certain distances and orientation from a reference point.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
In surveying operations distances are frequently measured with electronic distance measurement (EDM) instruments that rely on the time for a beam of sound or light rays to travel to a reflector and back. The beam of sound or light rays emitted by the EDM
instrument positioned at a first location are reflected back by a prism, usually mounted on a pole or rod, positioned at a second location to determine the distance between the two locations.
To measure out a distance, a survey party chief typically sets up an EDM
instrument on a tripod over a known point at a first location, sometimes called a traverse station or traverse point. A second member of a survey crew, the "rod man", handles the surveying pole or rod. The rod man will pace off a distance along a line from the first traverse point to a second location to locate approximately the position of the second traverse point. The survey party chief also instructs the rod man to move the rod to the left or right in order to establish the correct, predetermined traverse line.
An experienced rod man can roughly pace off a distance of 50 meters and usually be within 2 to 3 meters of the true distance. The rod man then positions the rod to face the EDM instrument and the survey party chief "shoots" the distance. Having determined the distance to the pole from the traverse point, the chief will then communicate orally or by radio to the rod man to move the rod forward or backward a specific distance to achieve the exact total distance required to establish the second traverse point. By employing crude techniques such as using the length of one's boot, the rod man estimates this communicated distance and repositions the rod so that the chief can take another reading. This process may be repeated several times before the true second traverse point is established.
In slope-staking applications, a design profile of the road is determined at stations along the length of a road across the entire road right-of-way. Here, the survey party chief will typically direct the rod man to move a leveling rod laterally across the right-of-way at a station in order to determine a point where the present level of the ground matches the design slope of a ditch adjacent to the road. The rod man usually uses a tape measure to measure distances and then computes in his head how far the rod must be moved to determine the desired location having regard to the slope of the ditches (ie.
FIELD OF INVENTION
This invention relates to a surveying rod aid device and more particularly, to a surveying rod aid device for use by survey rod men to locate points on the ground which are certain distances and orientation from a reference point.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
In surveying operations distances are frequently measured with electronic distance measurement (EDM) instruments that rely on the time for a beam of sound or light rays to travel to a reflector and back. The beam of sound or light rays emitted by the EDM
instrument positioned at a first location are reflected back by a prism, usually mounted on a pole or rod, positioned at a second location to determine the distance between the two locations.
To measure out a distance, a survey party chief typically sets up an EDM
instrument on a tripod over a known point at a first location, sometimes called a traverse station or traverse point. A second member of a survey crew, the "rod man", handles the surveying pole or rod. The rod man will pace off a distance along a line from the first traverse point to a second location to locate approximately the position of the second traverse point. The survey party chief also instructs the rod man to move the rod to the left or right in order to establish the correct, predetermined traverse line.
An experienced rod man can roughly pace off a distance of 50 meters and usually be within 2 to 3 meters of the true distance. The rod man then positions the rod to face the EDM instrument and the survey party chief "shoots" the distance. Having determined the distance to the pole from the traverse point, the chief will then communicate orally or by radio to the rod man to move the rod forward or backward a specific distance to achieve the exact total distance required to establish the second traverse point. By employing crude techniques such as using the length of one's boot, the rod man estimates this communicated distance and repositions the rod so that the chief can take another reading. This process may be repeated several times before the true second traverse point is established.
In slope-staking applications, a design profile of the road is determined at stations along the length of a road across the entire road right-of-way. Here, the survey party chief will typically direct the rod man to move a leveling rod laterally across the right-of-way at a station in order to determine a point where the present level of the ground matches the design slope of a ditch adjacent to the road. The rod man usually uses a tape measure to measure distances and then computes in his head how far the rod must be moved to determine the desired location having regard to the slope of the ditches (ie.
2:1 or 3:1 ).
In both of the above applications of land surveying, the ability of the rod man to move the rod to a desired location depends on how adept the rod man is at judging distances.
A rod man is usually paid a low wage and turnover in employment is high.
Consequently, survey party chiefs are constantly faced with new, unskilled rod men and the location of an exact point can therefore be time-consuming and frustrating for both crew members.
Attempts have been made to address the above issue. For example, U.S. Patent No.
4,972,591 to Hammet provides a hub for land surveying with an EDM instrument and a prism pole, the hub having a taper at one end and, at the other end, a surface marked with a series of parallel lines 0.01 feet apart. Although this device enables a rod man to move the rod to a desired location with relative ease, the device does not provide the rod man with an ability to determine intermediate distances, such as increments of 20 cm.
What would be desirable, therefore, is a device which will enable a rod man to accurately determine intermediate distances in land surveying applications.
_2_ SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention addresses the above need by providing a surveying rod aid device.
By generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from the lower end a surveying rod, the device will enable a rod man to quickly and easily place or move the surveying rod a specific distance, having regard to the placement of the respective light points.
In accordance with a first aspect of the invention there is provided a surveying rod aid device for connection with a surveying rod, including a projector, the projector including a housing and a light source for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals along a surface; a power source operable to illuminate the light source;
a mounting means for connecting the projector with the surveying rod; and a tilt switch for enabling the light source to be illuminated only when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation when the device is connected with the surveying rod.
The surveying rod has first and second ends, the second end may be configured for placement on a surface.
In the first aspect, the projector is intended to be connected with and configured relative to the surveying rod to generate the plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from the second end of the surveying rod, so that distances on the surface from the second end of the surveying rod can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points.
In the first aspect, the tilt switch may be comprised of any type of electrical switch which is actuated by changes in orientation. The tilt switch may, for example, be comprised of a mercury switch which allows current to flow from the power source to the light source only when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation when the device is attached to the surveying rod. The tilt switch may also be comprised of a ball switch, a rocker switch, a snap switch or some other type of orientation-type switch.
In the first aspect, the mounting means may be comprised of any suitable structure or apparatus, including a clamp, a VeIcroT"" strap, or a mounting bracket with set screws.
The mounting means may connect the projector with the surveying rod either releasably or permanently.
In the first aspect, the light source may be comprised of any device, structure or apparatus which is capable of producing the respective light points as contemplated herein. The light source is preferably comprised of one or a plurality of laser diodes. A
single laser diode may generate a single respective light point or a single laser diode may generate a plurality of respective light points through diffraction, reflection or other techniques. Preferably the light source is comprised of a plurality of laser diodes, each of which generates a single respective light point.
In accordance with a second aspect of the invention there is provided a surveying rod aid device including a surveying rod with first and second ends, the second end being configured for placement on a surface; a projector connected with the surveying rod, the projector including a housing and a light source for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from the second end of the surveying rod, the projector configured relative to the surveying rod so that distances on the surface from the second end of the surveying rod can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points; and a power source operable to illuminate the light source.
In the second aspect, The tilt switch may be comprised of any type of electrical switch which is actuated by changes in orientation. The tilt switch may, for example, be comprised of a mercury switch which allows current to flow from the power source to the light source only when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation.
The tilt switch may also be comprised of a ball switch, a rocker switch, a snap switch or some other type of orientation-type switch.
In both of the above applications of land surveying, the ability of the rod man to move the rod to a desired location depends on how adept the rod man is at judging distances.
A rod man is usually paid a low wage and turnover in employment is high.
Consequently, survey party chiefs are constantly faced with new, unskilled rod men and the location of an exact point can therefore be time-consuming and frustrating for both crew members.
Attempts have been made to address the above issue. For example, U.S. Patent No.
4,972,591 to Hammet provides a hub for land surveying with an EDM instrument and a prism pole, the hub having a taper at one end and, at the other end, a surface marked with a series of parallel lines 0.01 feet apart. Although this device enables a rod man to move the rod to a desired location with relative ease, the device does not provide the rod man with an ability to determine intermediate distances, such as increments of 20 cm.
What would be desirable, therefore, is a device which will enable a rod man to accurately determine intermediate distances in land surveying applications.
_2_ SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention addresses the above need by providing a surveying rod aid device.
By generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from the lower end a surveying rod, the device will enable a rod man to quickly and easily place or move the surveying rod a specific distance, having regard to the placement of the respective light points.
In accordance with a first aspect of the invention there is provided a surveying rod aid device for connection with a surveying rod, including a projector, the projector including a housing and a light source for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals along a surface; a power source operable to illuminate the light source;
a mounting means for connecting the projector with the surveying rod; and a tilt switch for enabling the light source to be illuminated only when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation when the device is connected with the surveying rod.
The surveying rod has first and second ends, the second end may be configured for placement on a surface.
In the first aspect, the projector is intended to be connected with and configured relative to the surveying rod to generate the plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from the second end of the surveying rod, so that distances on the surface from the second end of the surveying rod can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points.
In the first aspect, the tilt switch may be comprised of any type of electrical switch which is actuated by changes in orientation. The tilt switch may, for example, be comprised of a mercury switch which allows current to flow from the power source to the light source only when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation when the device is attached to the surveying rod. The tilt switch may also be comprised of a ball switch, a rocker switch, a snap switch or some other type of orientation-type switch.
In the first aspect, the mounting means may be comprised of any suitable structure or apparatus, including a clamp, a VeIcroT"" strap, or a mounting bracket with set screws.
The mounting means may connect the projector with the surveying rod either releasably or permanently.
In the first aspect, the light source may be comprised of any device, structure or apparatus which is capable of producing the respective light points as contemplated herein. The light source is preferably comprised of one or a plurality of laser diodes. A
single laser diode may generate a single respective light point or a single laser diode may generate a plurality of respective light points through diffraction, reflection or other techniques. Preferably the light source is comprised of a plurality of laser diodes, each of which generates a single respective light point.
In accordance with a second aspect of the invention there is provided a surveying rod aid device including a surveying rod with first and second ends, the second end being configured for placement on a surface; a projector connected with the surveying rod, the projector including a housing and a light source for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from the second end of the surveying rod, the projector configured relative to the surveying rod so that distances on the surface from the second end of the surveying rod can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points; and a power source operable to illuminate the light source.
In the second aspect, The tilt switch may be comprised of any type of electrical switch which is actuated by changes in orientation. The tilt switch may, for example, be comprised of a mercury switch which allows current to flow from the power source to the light source only when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation.
The tilt switch may also be comprised of a ball switch, a rocker switch, a snap switch or some other type of orientation-type switch.
In the second aspect, the projector may be integral with the surveying rod or the device may be further comprised of a mounting means for releasably or permanently connecting the projector with the surveying rod. The mounting means may be comprised of any suitable structure or apparatus, including a clamp, a VeIcroT"" strap, or a mounting bracket with set screws.
In the second aspect, the light source may be comprised of any device, structure or apparatus which is capable of producing the respective light points as contemplated herein. The light source is preferably comprised of one or a plurality of laser diodes. A
single laser diode may generate a single respective light point or a single laser diode may generate a plurality of respective light points through diffraction, reflection or other techniques. Preferably the light source is comprised of a plurality of laser diodes, each of which generates a single respective light point.
Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In drawings which illustrate embodiments of the invention:
Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the surveying rod aid device according to a first embodiment Figure 2 is an isometric view of the surveying rod aid device of Figure 1 with a mounting bracket and set screws attachment Figure 3 is an isometric view of the surveying rod aid device of Figure 1 with a clamp attachment Figure 4 is an isometric view of the surveying rod aid device of Figure 1 with a VeIcroT"" strap attachment Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the surveying rod aid device according to a second embodiment Figure 6 is a diagram of the surveying rod aid device in operation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to Figure 1, a surveying rod aid device according to a first embodiment of the invention is shown generally at 10. The device includes a projector 12.
Projector 12 includes a housing 14 and a light source comprising a plurality of laser diodes 16 for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals along a surface; a power source 20 operable to illuminate the plurality of laser diodes 16; a mounting means 22 to releasably connect the projector with a surveying rod 26; and a tilt switch 24 to enable the plurality of laser diodes 16 to be illuminated only when surveying rod 26 has a generally vertical orientation when the device is attached to the surveying rod.
Referring to Figure 5, device 10 is intended to be connected with surveying rod 26 and configured relative to surveying rod 26 so that the plurality of respective light points will be projected along a ground surface at specific intervals relative to a lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26.
In the Figure 1 embodiment, housing 14 has two compartments separated by a divider plate 13. Divider plate 13 has an opening to allow wires 54 to pass through.
Plurality of laser diodes 16 are contained in compartment 15 while power source 20 is contained in compartment 17. Power source 20 is typically a battery of any type that is suitable to power the chosen light sources. In one embodiment, wires 54 are connected to a battery strap 19, which in turn connects to the battery. To allow for easy removal of the battery, wires 54 are sufficiently long to allow the user to pull the battery out of compartment 17 while the battery remains connected to battery strap 19. A
piece of resilient material 21, for example foam, is placed along divider plate 13 in compartment 17 to bias the battery against wall 23 of compartment 17 in order to prevent the battery from moving. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several types of batteries and their respective connecting means may be used in alternative embodiments.
In the Figure 1 embodiment, compartment 15 has apertures 25 which allow the light beams from plurality of laser diodes 16 to shine through compartment 15.
Plurality of laser diodes 16 are held in compartment 15 by an internal bracket 99 and are aligned within compartment 15 so that a plurality of respective light points are shone at specific intervals along a surface.
Plurality of laser diodes 16 are preferably aligned so that the plurality of respective light points are shone at 20 cm intervals from each other on the ground adjacent to lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26 when device 10 is connected with and properly configured relative to surveying rod 26. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that plurality of laser diodes 16 may be aligned within compartment 15 to shine the plurality of respective light points at any specific interval or combination of intervals in either the metric or English systems of measurement, for example: 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm or 30 cm or comparable distances in feet or tenths of a foot.
In the Figure 1 embodiment, the projector 12 is depicted being releasably connectable with the surveying rod 26. Alternatively, the projector 12 may be permanently connectable with the surveying rod 26. Figures 2, 3 and 4 depict different embodiments of releasable mounting means.
Referring to Figure 2, a mounting means 22 is shown connected to an end of projector 12. Mounting means 22 may be comprised of a mounting bracket 34 with set screws 36. Mounting bracket 34 has an opening 38 to allow surveying rod 26 to slide into attachment with mounting bracket 34. Once surveying rod 26 is slid into place, set screws 36 may by tightened to firmly hold projector 12 onto surveying rod 26.
Referring to Figure 3, in an alternative embodiment, mounting means 22 may be comprised of a clamp 40 including a locking ball 43. Locking ball 43 is used to tighten clamp 40 around surveying rod 26. Referring to Figure 4, in a further embodiment, mounting means 22 may be comprised of a VeIcroT"" strap 42 including rails 45. Strap 42 is looped through rails 45 and then tightened around surveying rod 26. In the illustrated embodiments, mounting means 22 is simply connected adjacent the ends of projector 12. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more mounting means 22 may be connected to projector 12 at any point along projector 12 to provide a secure mount to surveying rod 26.
As indicated, the light source is preferably comprised of a plurality of laser diodes 16.
Plurality of laser diodes 16 may be any commercially available laser diodes that produce beams of intensity suitable for generating a plurality of respective light points along a surface during normal light conditions experienced when surveying. In one embodiment, the preferred laser diode is an industrial grade laser available from www.thelaserguy.com in Seabrook, Texas which emits a beam of about 645 nm wavelength with about 5 mW optical power. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, other light sources may also be used provided that they are suitably lightweight and sufficiently powerful to generate a relatively bright beam of light.
Referring to Figure 1, to conserve power, device 10 includes a tilt switch 24 to ensure that current from power source 20 is only fed to plurality of laser diodes 16 when surveying rod 26 has a generally vertical orientation. Tilt switch 24 is conveniently lightweight and small enough to fit into housing 14. In the Figure 1 embodiment, tilt switch 24 has first and second ends 44 and 46, with respective electrical contacts 48 and 50. Electrical contact 48 is connected to wires 52 leading to light sources 16, while electrical contact 50 is connected to wires 54 leading to power supply 20.
When surveying rod 26 is in a generally vertical position, tilt switch 24 completes an electrical circuit, thereby allowing current to flow from power source 20 to plurality of laser diodes 16. In one embodiment, tilt switch 24 is comprised of a mercury switch. The mercury switch includes a mercury filled sealed glass tube with first and second ends.
The first _g_ end of the glass tube has electrical contacts and is connected to wires leading to laser diodes 16, while the second end of the glass tube, also having electrical contacts, is connected to power source 20. When projector 12 is in a generally vertical position, the mercury is allowed to flow and extend between the first and second ends of the glass tube thereby completing a circuit, allowing current to flow from power source 20 to plurality of laser diodes 16. As those skilled in the art will appreciate other switches, such as ball switches, rocker switches and, snap switches, may also be used provided that they are suitably lightweight and compact.
Tilt switch 24 should be selected to provide a desired sensitivity with respect to the range of orientations of surveying rod 26 which will constitute a "generally vertical orientation". Preferably tilt switch 24 permits a reasonable range of departure from vertical so that device 10 is operable throughout the range of normal usage of surveying rod 26. In the preferred embodiment the tilt switch 24 permits a range of departure from the vertical of less than about ~ 10 degrees, but narrower or wider ranges of departure from vertical may be provided for if desired.
Referring to Figure 5, a surveying rod aid device according to a second embodiment of the invention is shown generally at 50. In the second embodiment device 50 includes surveying rod 26 with an upper first end 25 and lower second end 27, lower second end 27 being configured for placement on a surface; a projector 58 connected with surveying rod 26, projector 58 including a housing 60 and a light source comprising a plurality of laser diodes 62 for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from lower second end 27 of surveying rod 52, the projector 58 configured relative to surveying rod 26 so that distances on the surface from lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26 can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points; a mounting means 64 to releasably connect projector 58 with surveying rod 26; and a power source 66 operable to illuminate the plurality of laser diodes 62.
In the Figure 5 embodiment the projector 58 is depicted as being releasably connected with the surveying rod 52. Alternatively the projector 58 may be permanently connected _g_ with the surveying rod 52 or alternatively the projector 58 may be integral with the surveying rod 52 so that the projector 58 is integrally connected with the surveying rod 52.
Housing 14 and mounting means 22 may all be fabricated from suitable stainless steel utilizing conventional pressing techniques. It will be appreciated that other similarly suited materials, such as resilient plastic, and extruded or stamped metals, may be employed for either or both of the housing 14 and mounting means 22.
Operation In operation of device 10 as depicted in Figure 1, projector 12 is releasably connected with surveying rod 26 by suitably tightening mounting means 22. Device 10 is connected with surveying rod 26 and configured relative to surveying rod 26 such that the plurality of laser diodes 16 will project the plurality of respective light points on the ground at a preselected interval from each other and from lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26. Preferably the preselected interval between respective light points is cm.
Upon instructions from the survey party chief, the rod man will pace off a distance along 20 a line from a first traverse point to a second location to locate approximately the position of the second traverse point. The survey party chief will also instruct the rod man to move the rod to the left or right in order to establish the correct, predetermined traverse line.
Referring to Figure 6, once rod man 68 reaches a rough estimate of the second traverse point, rod man will 68 then position surveying rod 26 vertically and face survey party chief 70 who will then use an EDM instrument 72 to "shoot" the distance.
Having determined the distance to surveying rod 26 from the traverse point, survey party chief 70 will then communicate orally or by radio to rod man 68 to move surveying rod 26 forward or backward a specific distance to achieve the exact total distance required to establish the second traverse point.
As illustrated by Figure 6, once surveying rod 26 is in a generally vertical position, so to is projector 12. As such, tilt switch 24 completes a circuit allowing current to flow from power source 20 to plurality of laser diodes 16. Thus, projector 12 generates a plurality of respective light points onto the ground from lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26.
Distances on the ground from lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26 can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points which are set at specific intervals.
While specific embodiments of the invention have been described and illustrated, such embodiments should be considered illustrative of the invention only and not as limiting the invention as construed in accordance with the accompanying claims.
In the second aspect, the light source may be comprised of any device, structure or apparatus which is capable of producing the respective light points as contemplated herein. The light source is preferably comprised of one or a plurality of laser diodes. A
single laser diode may generate a single respective light point or a single laser diode may generate a plurality of respective light points through diffraction, reflection or other techniques. Preferably the light source is comprised of a plurality of laser diodes, each of which generates a single respective light point.
Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In drawings which illustrate embodiments of the invention:
Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the surveying rod aid device according to a first embodiment Figure 2 is an isometric view of the surveying rod aid device of Figure 1 with a mounting bracket and set screws attachment Figure 3 is an isometric view of the surveying rod aid device of Figure 1 with a clamp attachment Figure 4 is an isometric view of the surveying rod aid device of Figure 1 with a VeIcroT"" strap attachment Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the surveying rod aid device according to a second embodiment Figure 6 is a diagram of the surveying rod aid device in operation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to Figure 1, a surveying rod aid device according to a first embodiment of the invention is shown generally at 10. The device includes a projector 12.
Projector 12 includes a housing 14 and a light source comprising a plurality of laser diodes 16 for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals along a surface; a power source 20 operable to illuminate the plurality of laser diodes 16; a mounting means 22 to releasably connect the projector with a surveying rod 26; and a tilt switch 24 to enable the plurality of laser diodes 16 to be illuminated only when surveying rod 26 has a generally vertical orientation when the device is attached to the surveying rod.
Referring to Figure 5, device 10 is intended to be connected with surveying rod 26 and configured relative to surveying rod 26 so that the plurality of respective light points will be projected along a ground surface at specific intervals relative to a lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26.
In the Figure 1 embodiment, housing 14 has two compartments separated by a divider plate 13. Divider plate 13 has an opening to allow wires 54 to pass through.
Plurality of laser diodes 16 are contained in compartment 15 while power source 20 is contained in compartment 17. Power source 20 is typically a battery of any type that is suitable to power the chosen light sources. In one embodiment, wires 54 are connected to a battery strap 19, which in turn connects to the battery. To allow for easy removal of the battery, wires 54 are sufficiently long to allow the user to pull the battery out of compartment 17 while the battery remains connected to battery strap 19. A
piece of resilient material 21, for example foam, is placed along divider plate 13 in compartment 17 to bias the battery against wall 23 of compartment 17 in order to prevent the battery from moving. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several types of batteries and their respective connecting means may be used in alternative embodiments.
In the Figure 1 embodiment, compartment 15 has apertures 25 which allow the light beams from plurality of laser diodes 16 to shine through compartment 15.
Plurality of laser diodes 16 are held in compartment 15 by an internal bracket 99 and are aligned within compartment 15 so that a plurality of respective light points are shone at specific intervals along a surface.
Plurality of laser diodes 16 are preferably aligned so that the plurality of respective light points are shone at 20 cm intervals from each other on the ground adjacent to lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26 when device 10 is connected with and properly configured relative to surveying rod 26. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that plurality of laser diodes 16 may be aligned within compartment 15 to shine the plurality of respective light points at any specific interval or combination of intervals in either the metric or English systems of measurement, for example: 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm or 30 cm or comparable distances in feet or tenths of a foot.
In the Figure 1 embodiment, the projector 12 is depicted being releasably connectable with the surveying rod 26. Alternatively, the projector 12 may be permanently connectable with the surveying rod 26. Figures 2, 3 and 4 depict different embodiments of releasable mounting means.
Referring to Figure 2, a mounting means 22 is shown connected to an end of projector 12. Mounting means 22 may be comprised of a mounting bracket 34 with set screws 36. Mounting bracket 34 has an opening 38 to allow surveying rod 26 to slide into attachment with mounting bracket 34. Once surveying rod 26 is slid into place, set screws 36 may by tightened to firmly hold projector 12 onto surveying rod 26.
Referring to Figure 3, in an alternative embodiment, mounting means 22 may be comprised of a clamp 40 including a locking ball 43. Locking ball 43 is used to tighten clamp 40 around surveying rod 26. Referring to Figure 4, in a further embodiment, mounting means 22 may be comprised of a VeIcroT"" strap 42 including rails 45. Strap 42 is looped through rails 45 and then tightened around surveying rod 26. In the illustrated embodiments, mounting means 22 is simply connected adjacent the ends of projector 12. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more mounting means 22 may be connected to projector 12 at any point along projector 12 to provide a secure mount to surveying rod 26.
As indicated, the light source is preferably comprised of a plurality of laser diodes 16.
Plurality of laser diodes 16 may be any commercially available laser diodes that produce beams of intensity suitable for generating a plurality of respective light points along a surface during normal light conditions experienced when surveying. In one embodiment, the preferred laser diode is an industrial grade laser available from www.thelaserguy.com in Seabrook, Texas which emits a beam of about 645 nm wavelength with about 5 mW optical power. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, other light sources may also be used provided that they are suitably lightweight and sufficiently powerful to generate a relatively bright beam of light.
Referring to Figure 1, to conserve power, device 10 includes a tilt switch 24 to ensure that current from power source 20 is only fed to plurality of laser diodes 16 when surveying rod 26 has a generally vertical orientation. Tilt switch 24 is conveniently lightweight and small enough to fit into housing 14. In the Figure 1 embodiment, tilt switch 24 has first and second ends 44 and 46, with respective electrical contacts 48 and 50. Electrical contact 48 is connected to wires 52 leading to light sources 16, while electrical contact 50 is connected to wires 54 leading to power supply 20.
When surveying rod 26 is in a generally vertical position, tilt switch 24 completes an electrical circuit, thereby allowing current to flow from power source 20 to plurality of laser diodes 16. In one embodiment, tilt switch 24 is comprised of a mercury switch. The mercury switch includes a mercury filled sealed glass tube with first and second ends.
The first _g_ end of the glass tube has electrical contacts and is connected to wires leading to laser diodes 16, while the second end of the glass tube, also having electrical contacts, is connected to power source 20. When projector 12 is in a generally vertical position, the mercury is allowed to flow and extend between the first and second ends of the glass tube thereby completing a circuit, allowing current to flow from power source 20 to plurality of laser diodes 16. As those skilled in the art will appreciate other switches, such as ball switches, rocker switches and, snap switches, may also be used provided that they are suitably lightweight and compact.
Tilt switch 24 should be selected to provide a desired sensitivity with respect to the range of orientations of surveying rod 26 which will constitute a "generally vertical orientation". Preferably tilt switch 24 permits a reasonable range of departure from vertical so that device 10 is operable throughout the range of normal usage of surveying rod 26. In the preferred embodiment the tilt switch 24 permits a range of departure from the vertical of less than about ~ 10 degrees, but narrower or wider ranges of departure from vertical may be provided for if desired.
Referring to Figure 5, a surveying rod aid device according to a second embodiment of the invention is shown generally at 50. In the second embodiment device 50 includes surveying rod 26 with an upper first end 25 and lower second end 27, lower second end 27 being configured for placement on a surface; a projector 58 connected with surveying rod 26, projector 58 including a housing 60 and a light source comprising a plurality of laser diodes 62 for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from lower second end 27 of surveying rod 52, the projector 58 configured relative to surveying rod 26 so that distances on the surface from lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26 can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points; a mounting means 64 to releasably connect projector 58 with surveying rod 26; and a power source 66 operable to illuminate the plurality of laser diodes 62.
In the Figure 5 embodiment the projector 58 is depicted as being releasably connected with the surveying rod 52. Alternatively the projector 58 may be permanently connected _g_ with the surveying rod 52 or alternatively the projector 58 may be integral with the surveying rod 52 so that the projector 58 is integrally connected with the surveying rod 52.
Housing 14 and mounting means 22 may all be fabricated from suitable stainless steel utilizing conventional pressing techniques. It will be appreciated that other similarly suited materials, such as resilient plastic, and extruded or stamped metals, may be employed for either or both of the housing 14 and mounting means 22.
Operation In operation of device 10 as depicted in Figure 1, projector 12 is releasably connected with surveying rod 26 by suitably tightening mounting means 22. Device 10 is connected with surveying rod 26 and configured relative to surveying rod 26 such that the plurality of laser diodes 16 will project the plurality of respective light points on the ground at a preselected interval from each other and from lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26. Preferably the preselected interval between respective light points is cm.
Upon instructions from the survey party chief, the rod man will pace off a distance along 20 a line from a first traverse point to a second location to locate approximately the position of the second traverse point. The survey party chief will also instruct the rod man to move the rod to the left or right in order to establish the correct, predetermined traverse line.
Referring to Figure 6, once rod man 68 reaches a rough estimate of the second traverse point, rod man will 68 then position surveying rod 26 vertically and face survey party chief 70 who will then use an EDM instrument 72 to "shoot" the distance.
Having determined the distance to surveying rod 26 from the traverse point, survey party chief 70 will then communicate orally or by radio to rod man 68 to move surveying rod 26 forward or backward a specific distance to achieve the exact total distance required to establish the second traverse point.
As illustrated by Figure 6, once surveying rod 26 is in a generally vertical position, so to is projector 12. As such, tilt switch 24 completes a circuit allowing current to flow from power source 20 to plurality of laser diodes 16. Thus, projector 12 generates a plurality of respective light points onto the ground from lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26.
Distances on the ground from lower second end 27 of surveying rod 26 can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points which are set at specific intervals.
While specific embodiments of the invention have been described and illustrated, such embodiments should be considered illustrative of the invention only and not as limiting the invention as construed in accordance with the accompanying claims.
Claims (16)
1. A surveying rod aid device for connection with a surveying rod, comprising:
a projector, the projector comprising a housing and a light source for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals along a surface;
a power source operable to illuminate the light source;
a mounting means for connecting the projector with the surveying rod; and a tilt switch for enabling the light source to be illuminated only when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation when the device is connected with the surveying rod.
a projector, the projector comprising a housing and a light source for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals along a surface;
a power source operable to illuminate the light source;
a mounting means for connecting the projector with the surveying rod; and a tilt switch for enabling the light source to be illuminated only when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation when the device is connected with the surveying rod.
2. The surveying rod aid device of claim 1 wherein the surveying rod has first and second ends, the second end being configured for placement on a surface.
3. The surveying rod aid device of claim 2 wherein the projector generates the plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from the second end of the surveying rod, so that distances on the surface from the second end of the surveying rod can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points.
4. The surveying rod aid device of claim 1 wherein the tilt switch is comprised of a mercury switch which allows current to flow from the power source to the light source when the device is connected with the surveying rod and the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation.
5. The surveying rod aid device of claim 1 wherein the mounting means is comprised of a clamp.
6. The surveying rod aid device of claim 1 wherein the mounting means is comprised of a Velcro.TM. strap.
7. The surveying rod aid device of claim 1 wherein the mounting means is comprised of a mounting bracket with set screws.
8. The surveying rod aid device of claim 1 wherein the light source is comprised of a plurality of laser diodes.
9. A surveying rod aid device comprising:
a surveying rod with first and second ends, the second end being configured for placement on a surface;
a projector connected with the surveying rod, the projector comprising a housing and a light source for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from the second end of the surveying rod, the projector being configured relative to the surveying rod so that distances on the surface from the second end of the surveying rod can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points;
a power source operable to illuminate the light source.
a surveying rod with first and second ends, the second end being configured for placement on a surface;
a projector connected with the surveying rod, the projector comprising a housing and a light source for generating a plurality of respective light points at specific intervals from the second end of the surveying rod, the projector being configured relative to the surveying rod so that distances on the surface from the second end of the surveying rod can be determined having regard to the placement of the respective light points;
a power source operable to illuminate the light source.
10. The surveying rod aid device of claim 9 further comprising a tilt switch for enabling the light source to be illuminated only when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation.
11. The surveying rod aid device of claim 10 wherein the tilt switch is comprised of a mercury switch which allows current to flow from the power source to the light source when the surveying rod has a generally vertical orientation.
12. The surveying rod aid device of claim 9 further comprising a mounting means for connecting the projector with the surveying rod.
13. The surveying rod aid device of claim 12 wherein the mounting means is comprised of a clamp.
14. The surveying rod aid device of claim 12 wherein the mounting means is comprised of a Velcro.TM. strap.
15. The surveying rod aid device of claim 9 wherein the mounting means is comprised of a mounting bracket with set screws.
16. The surveying rod aid device of claim 9 wherein the light source is comprised of a plurality of laser diodes.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US4640102A | 2002-01-14 | 2002-01-14 | |
| US10/046,401 | 2002-01-14 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2398665A1 true CA2398665A1 (en) | 2003-07-14 |
Family
ID=27609050
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2398665 Abandoned CA2398665A1 (en) | 2002-01-14 | 2002-08-16 | Surveying rod aid device |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2398665A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20170021767A1 (en) * | 2015-07-25 | 2017-01-26 | Jiang Lu | Laser guided parking assistance device |
-
2002
- 2002-08-16 CA CA 2398665 patent/CA2398665A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20170021767A1 (en) * | 2015-07-25 | 2017-01-26 | Jiang Lu | Laser guided parking assistance device |
| US10106081B2 (en) * | 2015-07-25 | 2018-10-23 | Jiang Lu | Laser guided parking assistance device |
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