Trimble Navigation Limited

Raymond P Wilson

Harold L Longaker

A position identification system, that employs satellite navigational or similar positioning technology is provided. In one embodiment, the position identification system includes a receiver for receiving position signals from a positioning system; an orientation device that is configured to rotate about at least one axis; a pointing element coupled to the orientation device to provide indication of a direction to a desired position; and a processor that is coupled to the receiver to receive the position signals. The processor computes a current position of the position identification system based upon the position signals. The processor directs the orientation device, based upon the current position and the desired position, with the pointing device tracking the direction to the desired position as the current position changes. Using the positioning system, a pointing device is used to identify the direction to the desired location to the user of the positioning system. The positioning system receives a first position corresponding to the desired location. A second position is determined corresponding to the device's current location. Then the pointing element is oriented such that the pointing element is substantially aligned with the first position indicating the direction to the desired. The position signals are updated so that, if the device's current position changes, the pointing device will track the direction to the desired position.

Method and apparatus for navigation guidance

A position identification system, that employs satellite navigational or similar positioning technology is provided. The position identification system eliminates the need for estimating the location of a desired position and iteratively adjusting the placement of a range pole. In one embodiment, the position identification system includes an antenna/receiver for receiving position signals from a positioning system; an orientation device that is configured to rotate about a first axis and a second axis; a pointing element that operates in conjunction with the orientation device to identify a desired position; and a processor that is coupled to the antenna/receiver to receive the position signals. The processor computes a current position of the position identification system based upon the position signals and directs the orientation device based upon the current position and the desired position. Using the positioning system, a pointing device is used to identify the desired location to the user of the positioning system. The positioning system receives a first position corresponding to the desired location. A second position is determined corresponding to the device's current location. Then, when the pointing element is be oriented such that the pointing element is substantially aligned with the first position, the desired location may be identified by activating the pointing element.

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Christchurch, New Zealand

Raymond P Wilson