Trimble has filed a patent for a method to improve the accuracy of geodetic instruments. The method involves capturing images of a scene with an optical source turned on, obtaining a reference image to represent crosstalk in the optical channel, capturing a second image, and processing it with the reference image to remove crosstalk. This technique aims to enhance the precision of targeting and imaging in geodetic instruments. GlobalData’s report on Trimble gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Trimble, GNSS-based positioning was a key innovation area identified from patents. Trimble's grant share as of September 2023 was 74%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Method for removing crosstalk in a geodetic instrument
A recently filed patent (Publication Number: US20230251090A1) describes a method for operating a geodetic instrument that assists users in aiming at a target in a scene. The instrument includes an optical source that emits optical pulses to form a spot at the target, and an imaging device that captures images of the scene. The method involves capturing a first image of the scene with the optical source turned on, obtaining a reference image that represents crosstalk occurring in the common optical channel shared by the imaging device and the optical source, capturing a second image with the optical source turned on, and processing the second image with the reference image to remove crosstalk.
In one embodiment, the contribution from the spot is suppressed in the reference image by aiming the geodetic instrument towards a target that does not reflect light emitted by the optical source back towards the imaging device during the capture of the first image. This helps in accurately representing the crosstalk occurring in the common optical channel.
To further suppress the contribution from the scene, the method suggests providing a dark scene or a scene that does not reflect ambient light towards the imaging device. This ensures that the reference image primarily represents the crosstalk and not the scene itself.
The method also includes capturing a third image of the scene with the optical source turned off and generating a difference image based on the first and third images. The reference image is then based on this difference image, which helps in suppressing the contribution from the scene.
Additionally, the method allows for capturing additional images with the optical source turned on, forming a plurality of images. The reference image is obtained by determining the lowest registered intensity level of each pixel among the plurality of images and using this lowest registered intensity level for each respective pixel of the imaging device.
The patent also describes a geodetic instrument that includes the optical source, imaging device, and a processing unit configured to operate the instrument according to the method described in the patent claims. The optical source can be an infrared laser or a laser in the visible spectrum, while the imaging device can be an infrared camera or a camera configured to detect visible light.
Overall, this patent presents a method and instrument for operating a geodetic instrument that effectively removes crosstalk from captured images, improving the accuracy and reliability of the instrument's measurements.
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