Patent ID: 6618133
Filing Date: 2003-09-09
Classification: G01C,G01S,G06Q

Abstract:
A method for facilitating generation of x-y-z position data within a measurement field wherein at least two rotatably supported optical transmitters are positioned at predetermined locations in a spaced apart relationship to illuminate said measurement field and at least one illumination detector is used to detect illumination from said transmitters, the method comprising the steps of:propagating first and second substantially planar shaped beams from each transmitter to sweep said measurement field; propagating an azimuth reference signal for said beams; selectively positioning said illumination detector within said measurement field; storing calibration data unique to each transmitter in a memory unit that is associated with that transmitter and not disposed in or physically connected to said illumination detector, said calibration data defining a relative position of said beams of that associated transmitter; outputting the calibration data to said illumination detector or to a system for calculating said x-y-z position data to identify the transmitter; and calculating said x-y-z position data using said calibration data and detection of said beams and said strobe by said illumination detector.