Robotic Total Stations - 3.3.5 | 3. Modern Field Survey Systems | Surveying and Geomatics
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Introduction to Robotic Total Stations

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Teacher
Teacher

Today, we will explore Robotic Total Stations, or RTS. Can anyone tell me what they think makes a surveying tool 'robotic'?

Student 1
Student 1

Is it because it can work automatically?

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! RTS can autonomously track a prism using a servomotor. This allows a surveyor to operate it from a distance. How does that sound like it would help in surveying?

Student 2
Student 2

It would save time since you don't need multiple people to hold instruments.

Teacher
Teacher

Absolutely, it saves time and effort. Remember the acronym 'SMART' to recall how RTS helps: S for Speed, M for Manual aid removal, A for Accuracy, R for Remote control, and T for Tracking. What does each letter refer to?

Student 3
Student 3

S for Speed in data collection, M means we don’t need another person to hold a prism, A is for the accuracy of measurements, R is about controlling it remotely, and T is for its tracking ability.

Teacher
Teacher

Great summary! Remember these points as they are crucial in explaining why RTS is revolutionary.

Components and Functionality of RTS

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Teacher
Teacher

Let’s discuss the key components of an RTS. Can anyone name one?

Student 4
Student 4

The servomotor is important because it helps rotate the instrument.

Teacher
Teacher

Correct! The servomotor is crucial for movement. RTS also uses an Advanced Tracking Sensor, or ATS. Why do you think the ATS is essential?

Student 1
Student 1

It helps in accurately following the prism.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! This allows the RTS to maintain measurements without requiring manual repositioning. So, what do you think is the most significant benefit of these technologies in practical surveying scenarios?

Student 2
Student 2

Increasing efficiency and safety, especially in difficult terrains.

Teacher
Teacher

Well put! Before we move on, what is one significant application of Robotic Total Stations?

Student 3
Student 3

They can be used to monitor structural deformations.

Teacher
Teacher

Great answer! Let's summarize: Robotic Total Stations increase efficiency by automating tracking, which ultimately allows for safe and accurate data collection.

Introduction & Overview

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Quick Overview

Robotic Total Stations integrate advanced tracking technology to automate surveying tasks efficiently.

Standard

This section discusses Robotic Total Stations (RTS), highlighting their ability to autonomously track a prism during surveys, which significantly reduces labor cost and improves precision. RTS are equipped with servomotors, allowing remote control and operation by a single surveyor, showcasing their applications in various fields.

Detailed

Robotic Total Stations

Robotic Total Stations (RTS) represent a significant advancement in surveying technology, integrating traditional total station functionalities with sophisticated tracking mechanisms. RTS can autonomously follow a prism both horizontally and vertically, enhancing efficiency in data collection and reducing fieldwork time.

Key Features:

  • Advanced Tracking Sensors: RTS utilizes servomotors to rotate the instrument and track the movement of a prism equipped with an Advanced Tracking Sensor (ATS).
  • Remote Control Operation: The system enables surveyors to control the RTS from the prism pole side using a remote, allowing one person to conduct an entire survey operation.
  • Flexibility and Accuracy: RTS provides high accuracy measurements even in low visibility conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of applications including topographic surveys, construction projects, and archaeological investigations.

Applications:

Robotic Total Stations are utilized in various fields for tasks such as:
- Topographic surveying
- Setting out constructions like bridges and dams
- Environmental monitoring and deformation studies
- Automated guidance for heavy machinery

By employing RTS technology, the surveying process becomes more streamlined, allowing for efficient data gathering with reduced manpower and enhanced productivity.

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Introduction to Robotic Total Stations

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Another advancement in Total Station is the emergence of Robotic Total Station (RTS) which is able to follow a prism horizontally and vertically through servomotor in the instrument.

Detailed Explanation

Robotic Total Stations are an improvement over traditional Total Stations. They come equipped with servomotors that allow them to track a prism both horizontally and vertically. This means that as the prism moves during surveying, the RTS can automatically adjust its position to stay aligned with the prism. This capability significantly streamlines the surveying process, as the instrument can follow the target without manual adjustments.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine a basketball player who has a coach that follows their every move on the court. Just like the coach adjusts their position to always have a clear view of the player, the Robotic Total Station adjusts itself to keep the prism in focus, making it easier and faster to record the measurements.

Functionality and Components

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These RTSs are expensive as they have more sensors in the device as well as prism. These sensors make the instrument to work in robotic mode.

Detailed Explanation

Robotic Total Stations incorporate advanced sensors that facilitate their ability to operate in robotic mode. These sensors detect the position of the prism and relay that information to the servomotors, which then adjust the instrument's alignment accordingly. Due to these additional features and functionalities, Robotic Total Stations tend to be more costly than traditional Total Stations.

Examples & Analogies

Think of it like a high-tech camera that can follow a moving subject automatically. Just like how the camera adjusts its lens and angle to keep the person in the frame as they move, the Robotic Total Station uses sensors to keep the prism in the correct position for accurate measurements.

Efficiency in Surveying

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With this instrument, just one person is required to carry out the entire survey.

Detailed Explanation

One of the main advantages of a Robotic Total Station is that it allows a single surveyor to perform tasks that would usually require multiple people. Traditionally, surveying often necessitated one person to operate the Total Station and another to hold the prism at the target point. However, with the RTS, the control of the instrument can be done from the prism side using a remote controller, enabling one individual to manage the entire surveying process.

Examples & Analogies

Consider it like a drone pilot who operates the drone remotely. Instead of needing a team to manage the drone's flight and capture images, a skilled pilot can do it all alone, efficiently covering more ground without additional personnel.

Applications of Robotic Total Stations

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Total Stations are used to increase the productivity for topographic surveying, to set out bridges, dams, canal, houses or boundaries.

Detailed Explanation

Robotic Total Stations are utilized in a wide variety of applications, enhancing productivity and efficiency in surveying. Their capabilities make them ideal for complex tasks like topographic surveying, as well as for setting out constructions like bridges, dams, canals, and property boundaries. The precision and automated tracking capabilities of RTS greatly contribute to the accuracy of these tasks, ensuring better project outcomes.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine a chef in a busy kitchen. Instead of needing several assistants to help when preparing a large order, the chef has a sophisticated robot that can chop, stir, and measure ingredients simultaneously. Just like the robot increases the chef's productivity and efficiency, the Robotic Total Station boosts a surveyor's work, allowing them to accomplish more without needing additional help.

Definitions & Key Concepts

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Key Concepts

  • Robotic Total Stations streamline the surveying process by automating prism tracking, enabling remote operation.

  • They enhance precision, requiring only one surveyor, which reduces labor costs and improves efficiency.

  • RTS are versatile and can operate in various conditions, including low visibility, making them suitable for multiple applications.

Examples & Real-Life Applications

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Examples

  • An RTS deployed in a construction site to monitor the positioning of a newly erected building.

  • Using an RTS to track movement during a structural integrity test on a bridge takes less manpower due to its automated features.

Memory Aids

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🎵 Rhymes Time

  • In the world of survey, RTS shines bright, Tracking with precision both day and night.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Imagine a lone surveyor in a vast field, armed with a Robotic Total Station. With a push of a button, the RTS tracks a prism moving in the distance, gathering accurate data without the need for an assistant.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • Remember 'ARTS': A for Automation, R for Remote, T for Tracking, S for Survey efficiency.

🎯 Super Acronyms

The acronym 'SMART' helps to remember

  • S: for Speed
  • M: for manpower saving
  • A: for Accuracy
  • R: for Remote operation
  • T: for Tracking.

Flash Cards

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Glossary of Terms

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  • Term: Robotic Total Station (RTS)

    Definition:

    An advanced surveying instrument that incorporates servomotors and tracking technology to autonomously follow a prism during measurements.

  • Term: Advanced Tracking Sensor (ATS)

    Definition:

    A sensor fitted on a prism that communicates with the RTS to allow automatic tracking of the prism.

  • Term: Servomotor

    Definition:

    An electric motor that provides precise angle control by converting electrical commands into mechanical movement.